Ossining program checks in on seniors every day
The program operates seven days a week, but becomes that much more important when the temperatures either plummet or rise like on Monday.
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Every day, teams of employees with the Town of Ossining start their day by calling dozens of seniors.
The RUOK (Are You OK?) program was designed to be a daily wellness check for homebound and other seniors living alone.
"They feel comfortable talking to somebody if they live alone and they don't have family or friends they at least know there is somebody there that will check on them," social worker Debbie Klein said.
The program operates seven days a week, but becomes that much more important when the temperatures either plummet or rise like on Monday.
"If they don't have air conditioning or something like that, they get dehydrated very easily," Ossining Senior Services director Lynn Muller said. "We feel it's more important to be in touch in extreme weather."
This, along with the town's home-delivered meals program, ensures more seniors are being checked in on daily. In case of emergency, callers can contact family, neighbors or police if necessary.
"It's just quick, touch base, make sure they're OK, otherwise they wouldn't have any social contact with somebody," Muller said.
Clara Rossi has been attending Senior Services programs for 20 years.
She said it helps keep her busy, socializing and out of the heat on days like today.
"For me, it's my life," she said. "I find everything here."
Organizers say they know more people in the town need these types of services and encourage anyone interested to visit their website or call 914-762-1350.
