Most of the media coverage surrounding the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act lists out the aid designated for small businesses. The act also provides almost a billion dollars in grants specifically for seniors and those with disabilities negatively affected by COVID-19.
Many seniors throughout Maryland rely on programs and volunteers throughout their communities to help them maintain their independence by delivering meals, running errand services and conducting welfare check-ins. With the social distancing requirements many of these programs have slowed down or completely stopped providing these much needed services.
The CARES Act provides funding for drive through meal services for seniors, personal care assistance, grocery delivery and transportation to essential services. It also provides rehabilitative services for those released from hospitals to assist in providing the care needed to restore the individual to independent living status.
Not only does this funding help the seniors themselves, it also extends to caregivers. Funding provides respite care and virtual ombudsmen programs for those in long-term care facilities where visitations have been suspended.
For many seniors who have suffered financial losses during this time, the CARES Act prevents landlords from initiating eviction proceedings or imposing late penalties for a period of 120 days on qualifying seniors.
In addition to the CARES Act, another law was enacted called the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) providing $250 million dollars towards nutrition programs for seniors. While these are trying times for everyone, especially isolated seniors, there are resources available throughout Maryland to help seniors with essential needs. For more information on these resources, please contact Stouffer Legal at 443-470-3599, a law firm focusing on Elder Law and Estate Planning in the Greater Baltimore area.
