What:
Papa, the platform of companionship and support to older adults and families, announced a pilot program with Mutual of Omaha and its affiliates that will serve eligible Medicare supplement policyholders in Illinois and Missouri.
Why:
Older individuals are more vulnerable to loneliness and social isolation and, as a result, more at risk for a range of health and social issues. This was an issue we faced pre-pandemic that has become even more prevalent today.
How:
- Papa services will be available to eligible Mutual of Omaha policyholders to help address the impact that social isolation and access to essential care and services have on health outcomes for aging adults.
- The typical Papa encounter starts with a phone call. If the person agrees, a Papa Pal is dispatched to the patient’s home, where they have a conversation about their needs and offer support with day-do-day activities, like driving to a doctor’s appointment or preparing a meal. During the Covid-19 pandemic, Papa also started offering virtual visits.
- The pals’ help isn’t limited to errands. They also make notes on issues they might spot within the home, like uneven floor boards or a bathtub with a high rim that could contribute to falls. The member then gets a follow-up call from a member of Papa’s care team who explains how the person could use their insurance for home modification to make it more accessible.