In addition to an evolving COVID-19 resource page, MHAC is continuing to collect and share updates on COVID-19 from state government, federal agencies like the Centers for Disease Control, and other key stakeholders.

These updates are to help and inform a wide range of individuals and partners, including communities working to become more age- and dementia friendly.

Please see the latest updates below:

• Governor Announces Reopening Advisory Board, Support for Nursing Facilities

The Baker-Polito Administration announced a second round of funding up to $130 million for nursing facilities to support COVID-19 response efforts over the next two months, as well as increased funding of $44 million for residential congregate care service providers.

Along with extending non-essential business closures to May 18th, the Governor is also appointing a “Reopening Advisory Board,” which includes three age-friendly communities (Boston, Lawrence, Northampton) and one of the state’s age-friendly health systems (Baystate Health).

• State Releases Latest Data Dashboard

In the most recent COVID-19 data dashboard released by the Mass. Department of Public Health, nearly 39% of confirmed COVID-19 cases are people age 60 and older. That same age group represents 85% of hospitalizations and DPH reports that the average age of persons whose cases resulted in death is 82.

• EOHED Shares Forms and Resources on Eviction Moratorium During COVID-19

Emergency regulations and required forms to implement the temporary moratorium on evictions are now available here at the website of the Executive Office of Housing and Economic Development.

• Mass. Attorney General Promotes Flyers in Multiple Languages Showcasing Legal Rights During COVID-19

Mass. Attorney General Maura Healey’s office created two important informational posters in multiple languages regarding access to health care and other rights community members have during this time of COVID-19.

Please see this website to download and distribute these posters, which also include phone numbers to call if people experience any issues or violations of the listed protections.

• NCOA Reports on Pandemic’s Impact on Older Workers

The National Council on Aging (NCOA) reported in their blog that, in 2019, one in five adults age 65 and older are in the workforce and nearly three-quarters of those had a job where telecommuting was not an option.

NCOA is one of several national sponsors of the Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP). Funded by the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), SCSEP is a training program that helps low-income, unemployed individuals aged 55+ find part-time work and get back on the path to financial stability.