Social isolation can lead to an increased risk of depression and anxiety among homebound older adults, which can impact their quality of life and their well-being. In the face of the COVID-19 crisis, Jewish Family Service (JFS) of Somerset, Hunterdon and Warren counties is working to address social isolation among seniors by connecting them to their communities through user-friendly technology. Jewish Family Service of Somerset, Hunterdon and Warren counties is distributing user-friendly devices that adapt seniors’ televisions and remote controls and provide connectivity to their families as well as to existing telehealth and health and wellness services that they would not traditionally receive. To reach older adults throughout the state and particularly in smaller, underserved communities, Jewish Family Service of Somerset, Hunterdon and Warren counties is coordinating this project across the statewide network of JFS agencies and in partnership with Jewish Family and Children’s Service of Southern New Jersey, the Community Visiting Nurse Service and local offices on aging. Through this project, JFS is advancing existing efforts to address the needs of older adults and support seniors who prefer to age in place, all helping to inform an equitable recovery.

In February 2021, nearly one year after the onset of the pandemic, Elise Prezant, coordinator of services for Jewish Family Service of Somerset, Hunterdon and Warren counties, recorded her reflections on JFS’ work and shared the agency’s goals and recommendations for an equitable recovery. Scroll down to watch the video.