AARP Texas

This week’s ‘Prepare to Care’ podcast addresses two different topics that impact us all during these difficult times: scammers and caregivers. To give older Americans the tips, information, and resources they need during the COVID-19 outbreak we are referring to scam experts and caregiving specialists.

With the economic downturn and the temporary closure of many places that serve group meals to older adults, the coronavirus pandemic is making food even harder to access for many.

The toll COVID-19 has on humans has been widely reported, but what about your pets. Can they catch this virus? Dr. Karen Wu, a Zoonosis Veterinarian at the Veterinary Public Health Division and Harris County Animal Shelter said that the CDC has not reported any cases of pets, livestock, or wildlife that have been sick with COVID-19, but a type of the virus does exist in animals.

Two of Texas’ top health officials fielded questions from AARP members during a recent telephone town hall focused on COVID-19, remarking on the importance of social distancing and explaining steps that state agencies are taking to serve people in hospitals, nursing homes and assisted living facilities.

AARP will host a live Coronavirus Information Tele-Town Hall every Thursday at 12 p.m. (CST). Experts at this week’s live Q&A event will address your questions related to protecting yourself and loved ones from the virus, staying healthy and reducing social isolation.

The words “social isolation” has taken on a whole new feeling… yes, I said feeling. Sure, we know it means to isolate yourself, but for many, it has taken on a feeling as well. Some of us are feeling anxious, sad, and uneasy. Many of us have turned those feelings into an opportunity to channel our inner Julia Child, Rachel Ray, Gordon Ramsey, Aaron Sanchez, or Eddie Huang.

Social distancing is a phrase we’re all too familiar with today and part of our new normal in this time of Covid-19. As we socially distance ourselves to prevent spreading the virus, you should look for ways to avoid loneliness without risking our health.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott’s March 31 order extending social distancing guidelines through the end of April means the Lone Star State will be operating in its new normal for at least one more month.

The novel coronavirus, or COVID-19, is spreading around the world, sparking anxiety and questions about the respiratory disease. AARP Texas wants to help you get answers to your most urgent questions.

Seems like every day we are hearing something new about the Coronavirus or Covid-19. The only consistent message is that major steps are being taken during the illness' outbreak to inform and protect older Americans and their families.