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:

• Baker Administration Announces Four-Phased Approach to Reopening

The goal of the phased reopening, based on public health guidance, is to methodically allow certain businesses, services, and activities to resume, while protecting public health and limiting a resurgence of new COVID-19 cases.

• Phase 1 will be “Start:” limited industries resume operations with severe restrictions
• Phase 2 will be “Cautious:” additional industries resume operations with restrictions and capacity limits
• Phase 3 will be “Vigilant:” additional industries resume operations with guidance
• Phase 4 will be the “New Normal:” development of vaccine and/or therapy enables resumption of new normal.

More information on the reopening approach is available here.

• CDC Offers Guidance on ‘Implementation of Mitigation Strategiesfor Communities with Local COVID-19 Transmission’

Thanks to our partners at Mass. DPH for passing along this CDC guidance, which is a  framework for actions that local and state health departments can recommend in their
community to both prepare for and mitigate community transmission of COVID-19.

• How Public Transit is Responding to Assist Older Adults During COVID-19

The AARP Public Policy Institute published a blog post on how pubic transportation providers across the country are assisting older adults during COVID-19.

This includes rural transit providers that have stepped up on home delivery of groceries, food pantry packages, meals provided by senior centers, and prescription medications to older adults and at-risk individuals who shouldn’t leave the safety of their homes.