COVID-19 Update from VNLV
Stay Safe, Stay Home: The Governor signed an executive order directing Connecticut residents to "Stay Safe, Stay Home." It directs all nonessential businesses statewide to prohibit in-person functions. Guidance has been issued to the state's businesses. This remains in effect until May 20, unless otherwise modified.

For more information on COVID-19, please visit CDC.gov .
Face Coverings:
Following recommendation from the CDC for everyone to wear cloth face coverings in public settings to reduce the spread of COVID-19, the Governor signed an executive order directing face coverings to be worn by anyone in public wherever a six-foot distance is unavoidable, including by employees while in the workplace. A CDC video explains how to make a face covering. This does not apply to anyone for whom doing so would be contrary to his or her health or safety because of a medical condition.

Cloth face coverings should not be placed on young children under age 2, anyone who has trouble breathing, or is unconscious, incapacitated or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance.

Want to make your own face mask? To read the directions, click here.

Do you have any cloth masks to donate? VNLV has a limited supply and could always use more. If you are able to make and donate masks to VNLV, please call 860-767-0186.
Technology Can Help The Lonely Elderly Endure Social Distancing
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to sweep through nations, with no vaccine yet available, a cohesive effort to “flatten the curve” through physical isolation has become a critically important tactic to slow the transmission rate. The goal is to reduce the numbers of people getting sick at the same time to prevent local health systems from being overwhelmed. This is particularly necessary for the elderly, who are at much greater risk of severe complications. But these public health isolation measures come at a cost: disruption in our lives and social isolation.

To read the full story, click here. Content Credit: Forbes.com
Gardening Can Help You Battle the Blues of Staying at Home
Older Americans across the country have been staying home as COVID-19 cases spread, but staying away from crowds doesn't have to keep them from planting seedlings or pruning rose bushes.

Even as more states issue stay-at-home orders, at least one plant nursery chain reports that older adults are busy shopping for tomatoes and peppers as if inspired by the famous victory gardens of both world wars.

In fact, health experts encourage older adults to garden in order to get exercise and reduce stress. Interpreting stay-at-home restrictions as staying on the couch could cause an absence of activity that is unhealthy.

To read more, click here. Content Credit: AARP.com
7 Quick, Easy Recipes for Seniors
Pan-grilled Salmon with Pineapple Salsa

If the taste were a major factor, this would be at the top of the list. The salsa is primarily made by combining cilantro, onion, rice vinegar, pineapple and red pepper. Take a grilling pan, sprinkle some oil on it, add the fish fillets and cook for 4 minutes on each side. Add salsa on top for finger-licking taste. Ideal for lunch or dinner and has high nutrition content.

To see the other recipes, click here. Content credit: Chef for Seniors
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  Questions? Call Us! 860-767-0186