Maryland residents aged 65 and older have access to a program that provides a daily phone call to check on the resident’s well-being. Residents can apply to be part of the Senior Call Check program via the computer, a paper application or a phone call. During the COVID-19 pandemic, residents can choose an expedited process to enroll and get daily check-ins.
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.
We recommend all seniors use the program as a resource during the COVID-19 global pandemic.
Senior Call Check phone lines are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. During these hours, seniors can call toll-free 1-866-50-CHECK (1-866-502-0560).
There are three ways to apply.
The fastest way to apply is online. 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 reaching out to participants with the option of live weekly calls.
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).
An alternate is a person you have selected to be called in the Senior Call Check program in the event that the senior does not answer automated call after three 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 the alternate and explain their responsibility in being a support in the event the senior needs help and do not pick up their daily call.
If anyone does not have an Alternate Person, a Limited Alternate will be assigned. The program will notify thelocal non-emergency service after multiple attempts to reach the senior.
How to apply
Three options available to apply:
- Click on.
OR
- Download and print Maryland Senior Call Check Paper Application to mail in.
OR
- Call toll-free (866)-502-0560 and ask to have a hard copy application mailed to your home.
When do calls begin?
Unless a senior chooses the expedited process, 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 the registered home address. The welcome letter will include a call start date.
Senior Call Check is available every day of the year with the exception of six holidays when the center is closed: New Year’s, Memorial Day, 4th of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas.
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, call the 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.
