Navigating COVID-19 Vaccinations Requires Diligent, Attentive Eye

By Allison Eichner

Living in a digital age, we are accustomed to speed and ease when making appointments, online shopping, and reading the latest news. Although, for those trying to navigate a digital world of complex COVID-19 information, quite the opposite is true, specifically when it comes to the state’s distribution of COVID19 vaccinations. As of January 29, half of Broomfield residents aged 70+ had received their vaccines, but many were still struggling to know where to start.

With the added layer of constantly changing information and availability of vaccines, on top of electronic scheduling and sign-ups, the process can be confusing and overwhelming. Teryl Fabry, director of Senior Resources of Broomfield (SRB), offered some guidance for both Broomfield seniors and family and caregivers of people 70+ who still need their vaccine. She answered a few of our questions.

Q: How is SRB helping Broomfield Seniors navigate the vaccine process?

A: SRB is doing our best to reach out to seniors that don’t receive services from the city, because the city is already reaching out to those who receive services such as Meals on Wheels. When we come in touch with a senior that has questions, we direct them to Broomfield Senior Services to help them navigate through getting on the list for a vaccine.

Q: Most vaccine sign-ups and correspondence is digital, do you have any technology advice for seniors?

A: A lot of seniors are able to follow the links and fill out the information to get on the vaccine list. But, for those that need additional help whether it be because they have vision challenges or other restrictions, SRB can offer them assistance. We can help walk them through the process or refer them to Senior Services for additional help.

Q: What advice do you have for caregivers or adult children of seniors who are trying to ensure that their older parents and loved ones get the vaccine?

A: We encourage caregivers to follow the links the city provides and fill out the information for their family members to get them on the list as soon as possible. If they have Kaiser insurance we refer them to Kaiser to set up an appointment, or to get their vaccine through their particular insurance.

Broomfield Health and Human Services advises residents to first reach out to their primary doctor to inquire about a vaccine. From there, they can fill out the Broomfield City and County vaccine interest form. To find the form, visit www.Broomfield.org and click on the COVID-19 Vaccination Information button on the home screen. From there, scroll down and click on the teal Vaccine Interest Form button. The Google form will ask for contact information as well as the distribution group.

In order to help support our most vulnerable residents getting vaccinated, SRB is working closely with Broomfield Senior Services to help seniors or caregivers navigate the process. For help accessing the interest form or answering any other vaccine related questions, contact lclaxton@broomfield.org or seniorresourcesofbroomfield@gmail.com.