Seniors have a reputation of being some of the most reliable voters. There will be many more challenges ensuring that every vote counts in the 2020 election. For seniors who live independently, they may be concerned about getting out and being exposed to Covid-19 at the polls. Some of them also have issues finding a caretaker to escort them to the polls if needed.
Seniors that reside in nursing homes will struggle even more to get their vote counted because of the restrictions that prevent family and friends from visiting residents and also prevent residents from leaving the facility.
To remedy the situation, it will be important for those in the nursing home community, independent caretakers, family members or organized nonprofits to help seniors request mail-in ballots in a timely manner and help them fill them out and return them to meet the deadlines.
Election Day is Tuesday, November 3, 2020 and Maryland allows any voter to request a ballot by mail as well as offering early voting at designated polling locations.
Help a senior by assisting him or her in requesting a mail-in ballot. You can access the application here. Assist him or her in filling out the application completely and mailing it to the local election office. When the ballot arrives in the mail continue to help the senior review it carefully and make sure that it is filled out completely and returned on time.
If the senior has a Maryland driver's license or ID card you may be able to request a mail-in ballot via email. You still have to print off the ballot and mail it through the US Postal Service to your local election office.
Spread the word that this may be an issue for our elderly loved ones living throughout Maryland communities. Let's help our seniors get their votes counted. At Stouffer Legal, we care about our seniors and are always looking for opportunities to help them out. Contact us for more information about our Elder Law services in the Greater Baltimore area.
