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The latest on the Key Bridge collapse, New York puts forth legislation to get clean energy projects on the grid and Wisconsin and other states join a federal summer food program to help feed kids across the country.

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Republicans float conspiracy theories on the collapse of Baltimore's Key Bridge, South Carolina's congressional elections will use a map ruled unconstitutional, and the Senate schedules an impeachment trial for Homeland Secretary Mayorkas.

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Historic wildfires could create housing and health issues for rural Texans, a Kentucky program helps prison parolees start a new life, and descendants of Nicodemus, Kansas celebrate the Black settlers who journeyed across the 1870s plains seeking self-governance.

As WI Economy Reopens, Isolation Concerns Persist for Seniors

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Friday, May 22, 2020   

MILWAUKEE - Whether by court decisions or expiring stay-at-home orders, Wisconsin residents are seeing more business restrictions ease as the pandemic continues. A leading nonprofit group hopes that, as people leave their homes more frequently, they don't forget about older loved ones and neighbors.

Jim Flaherty, communications director for AARP Wisconsin, says isolation has been a big concern for people in the older high-risk age group, as they were being asked to stay home - often, with not much outside help.

That prompted a wave of volunteers to assist with errands and well-being checks. Flaherty fears all that care and concern could diminish as the state's economy opens up.

"We really are encouraging loved ones and neighbors, and friends and family, to continue to engage with the folks who are a little bit older and check on them," says Flaherty. "Bring them food. Ring their doorbell. Have a chat with them."

For seniors who plan to venture out to businesses and other places, Flaherty says they're encouraged to go during off-peak hours, avoid anyplace with large crowds, wear a mask and practice social distancing.

Social isolation among older Americans was a concern even before the new coronavirus crisis. Flaherty says COVID-19 has been just another layer added to the problem.

"This isn't just about the pandemic," says Flaherty. "This is about making sure that folks maintain their mental health and their connections to loved ones, throughout the pandemic."

He says the group is still facilitating extra help and signing up volunteers in local areas. More details can be found online at 'AARPCommunityConnections.org.'



Disclosure: AARP Wisconsin contributes to our fund for reporting on Budget Policy & Priorities, Consumer Issues, Health Issues, Senior Issues. If you would like to help support news in the public interest, click here.


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