As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, the public and the Aging Network, especially AAAs and Title VI Native American Aging Programs, have adapted. Still, infection rates, COVID-19 protocols, vaccine hesitancy and public sentiment about the topic varies, making it difficult at times to communicate with older adults and caregivers about the importance of the COVID-19 vaccine and boosters. With funding from the Department of Health and Human Services, Health Resources and Services Administration and the Public Health Institute, USAging is working to provide new tools to help the Aging Network educate their communities on the topic.

Our partners at the SHIP TA Center have developed a new consumer handout explaining Medicare coverage of the COVID-19 vaccine. The handout, available in seven languages, comes with a companion guide for professionals in English and Spanish titled Talking about Medicare Coverage of the COVID-19 Vaccine. Because COVID-19 is a sensitive subject for some people, the guide aims to help professionals in the Aging Network broach the subject with self-awareness that sets aside bias. The guide includes de-escalation tips that can apply to difficult conversations on any topic, not just COVID-19. Regardless of your Medicare expertise, it takes good communication skills, or “soft skills,” to navigate conversations about sensitive subjects. During the webinar, the SHIP TA Center’s experts can answer your questions about Medicare coverage of COVID-19 and navigating conversations about the COVID-19 vaccine.