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​​​Maryland is the first state in the country to start a free, opt-in, telephonic service to check on Maryland’s older residents, all across the state.​

HOW DOES IT WORK?





Every day a telephone call will be placed to a participant at a regularly scheduled time. These calls will take place between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. as close as possible to the one-hour time block pre-selected by the participant. If the participant does not answer their first call, they will be tried two more times. If those calls go unanswered, additional calls will be made to notify an alternative person who is selected by the participant during program enrollment. This could be an adult child, a neighbor, or another loved one. The alternate will then be encouraged to check on the older adult program participant. The failure of the participant and alternate to answer will result in a call to your local non-emergency service.

***ATTENTION IN RESPONSE TO THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC***​



We recommend all seniors use the program as a resource during the COVID-19 global pandemic. Senior Call Check phone lines are open M-F 8 am-5 pm and Saturday 9 am-3 pm. During these hours, seniors can call toll-free 1-866-50-CHECK (1-866-502-0560).

As mentioned below, there are three ways to apply. The fastest way to apply is online using the “REGISTER NOW” button below. The two application options that use the mail take longer. However, we have established a special application process during the COVID-19 emergency. During the COVID-19 emergency, if you cannot apply online and call in to apply, the Program can begin daily calls to you within 24 to 48 hours, if you wish. The Program will do this during the emergency even though your official enrollment will not be finalized and will still be in process.

The verification and enrollment process can be completed within 24 hours Monday – Saturday.

We will provide messages and updates regarding the COVID-19 outbreak where to find support if you need it.

Trained volunteers are outreaching to participants with the option of live weekly calls. The State of Maryland is listening to the needs and concerns of our older residents, in real time, and we will connect you to essential services and supports. ​

Finally, regarding our emergency preparedness for handling possible disruption from COVID-19, we can provide you information at this time of need.​





​WHO CAN PARTICIPATE?

Any Maryland resident who is 65 years of age or older who has a landline phone or cell phone (TTY is available). The participant and alternates should not have automated call blocking technology (or they should disable that phone feature for this program).







WHO IS AN ALTERNATE?

An alternate is a person you have selected to be called in the Senior Call Check program in the event you do not answer your automated call after 3 attempts. This person must be a reliable emergency contact, such as an adult child, a responsible neighbor, or a close relative. It is helpful to discuss the program with your alternate and explain their responsibility in being a support for you in the event you need help and do not pick up your daily call. If you do not have an Alternate Person, a Limited Alternate will be assigned to you. The program will notify your local non-emergency service after multiple attempts to reach you and your alternate.



HOW TO APPLY?

Three options available to apply: 1. Click on REGISTER NOW​ OR 2. Go to RESOURCES below; download & print Maryland Senior Call Check Paper Application to mail in. OR 3. Call toll-free (866)-502-0560 and ask to have a hard copy application mailed to your home.





WHEN DO CALLS BEGIN?

Unless you choose the expedited process described above, which we are making available during the COVID-19 emergency, daily calls will not begin until the applicant/participant receives a call to verify all of their information. Verification will include a successful test automated call to both the participant and alternate where applicable. After all information is validated, a Welcome Packet will be mailed to your home address. The welcome letter will include your start date.​







Senior Call Check is available every day of the year with the exception of 6 holidays when the center is closed: New Year’s, Memorial Day, 4th of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas.





RESOURCES

Please note these resources were written before the COVID-19 emergency and do not reflect the special application process available during the emergency.​





CLICK THE LINK BELOW TO REGISTER

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For Maryland residents who qualify for the program but who do not have access to the Maryland Department of Aging website, www.aging.maryland.gov, you may call our toll-free number to register by phone: 1 (866) 502-0560.

If an application is denied, the applicant will be informed. If an application is accepted, the applicant will be enrolled as a participant and informed when the daily call checks will begin.

Senior Call Check FAQ

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