Are You OK?

Daily Phone Calls Check on Homebound Seniors

Elderly homebound - those senior citizens living alone or disabled - can feel a sense of security and caring just knowing a daily call will be made to confirm all is well. According to the 1990 census, Tioga County has 7,897 citizens who are 60-years-old or older.

"Are You OK?" is an automated calling system in which a daily computerized system makes calls to those needing daily checks. An emergency ALERT will be received by the dispatcher at the Tioga County Sheriff's Department if the homebound person does not answer the daily call. The dispatcher will then alert the client's "first responder" and then appropriate law enforcement officers if necessary, that there is a possible emergency.

The target group for "Are You OK?" is at-risk older adults. However, with the computer program's capability to call up to 120 people per hour, the program focus would expand to serve disabled seniors living alone, and seniors caregiving at-risk seniors.

Referrals for potential recipients may be made to Tioga Opportunities, Department of Aging Services by other agencies, physicians, hospitals, family, friends, service providers, or individuals.

In addition to individuals receiving direct benefit from daily contact, service agencies, families, and friends would also view this as an additional support system to clients and loved ones. This automated calling system would be a positive addition to police, fire, and other emergency services.

This program was funded by a grant for equipment and software by the Mildred Faulkner Truman foundations. Additional funding was provided by Edward Byrne Memorial Grant to the Tioga County Sheriff's Department made possible by Senator Libous, Saint Paul's Episcopal Church, Riverview Nursing facility, Rotary Club, Owego Senior Citizens Club, and concerned individuals.

Ongoing service will be funded by client contributions.

The following agencies are participating in this joint venture to serve the seniors of Tioga County: Tioga Opportunities, Inc. Department of Aging Services, Tioga County Sheriff's Department, Owego Police Department, Waverly Police Department, New York State Police Department.