We urge you to be patient and understand that the information and availability of vaccine appointments changes daily, based on the number of vaccines available in Maine. In the meantime, while you are waiting for your shot, please continue to wear your mask, maintain social distancing and wash your hands frequently. If you have had your vaccine, please continue to adhere to these recommended CDC guidelines until further notice.
This is a confusing time as plans for vaccine delivery change daily. SMAA continues to work with the Governor’s office and the Maine CDC to maintain the most current and factual information. Maine has limited vaccine supplies. Currently you must be 70 years or older to receive a vaccine. You can find the latest information on COVID-19, including vaccination sites and information on how to schedule an appointment online using the links below.
If you do not have access to a computer, and cannot access the website, please call SMAA at 207-396-6500 and press option one. Vaccine information will be the first option to select when you call that number. If you need information about transportation resources, or need assistance scheduling your appointment, you may leave a message and a Southern Maine Agency on Aging volunteer will return your call as soon as possible. When you leave a message, please include your name, phone number, age, the town you live in, and the type of assistance that would be most helpful to you.
COVID-19 SCAMS
As the country begins to distribute COVID-19 vaccines, scammers are taking advantage of the coronavirus pandemic. The HHS Office of Inspector General alerted the public about COVID-19 fraud schemes, with scammers using telemarketing calls, text messages, social media platforms, and door-to-door visits to perpetrate COVID-19-related scams.
Con artists may also try to get Medicare Numbers or personal information so they can steal identities and commit Medicare fraud. Medicare fraud results in higher health care costs and taxes for everyone.
What can you do to help prevent Medicare beneficiaries from being a victim of fraud?
Share this important information with Medicare beneficiaries to help them protect themselves from Medicare fraud:
Medicare covers the COVID-19 vaccine, so there will be no cost to you.
If you believe you’ve been scammed, file a complaint with the Maine Attorney General at consumer.mediation@Maine.gov or FederalTradeCommission@FTC.gov, or call 1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357); TTY: 1-866-653-4621.
SMAA Operations News
On February 1, 2021, the Southern Maine Agency on Aging moved centralized their operations to the Sam L. Cohen Center at 30 Barra Road in Biddeford. Although we are still not welcoming visitors to our office, we hope that when it is safe to do so again, you will visit us in Biddeford.
The majority of our staff is still working remotely, but continue to be available via phone, email and Zoom conferencing. Agewell classes, such as Tai Chi and others, are being conducted virtually and our resource specialists are available to assist clients by calling (207) 396-6500 or by email at referral@smaaa.org. If you are interested in signing up for Meals on Wheels, please call (207) 396-6500 and listen to the prompts for Meals on Wheels.