During the governor's coronavirus briefing in Columbus Tuesday, a new program was announced to help senior citizens stay connected and get the help they need during this pandemic.

It's called the "Staying Connected Check-in Service." It's a free daily check-in phone call service for anyone in Ohio who is 60 years of age or older. The program comes from the Ohio department of Aging.

The check-in calls will be made from 7am to 7pm, 7 days a week. The senior picks a time when they prefered to be called. Officials will make 3 attempts to call the person. Once the senior answers, they can confirm they are OK and they have the option to be transferred to learn more about other services that they can use.

"We'll connect you with someone who can connect you with a service. Maybe you need a meal. Maybe you need some information. We'll provide that connection to you," said Ursel McElroy, Director of the Ohio DEpt. of Aging.

Now if after 3 attempts and the senior doesn't answer, a designated person will be connected to alert them that the senior did not pick up. Local non-emergency services can also be alerted if needed.

Mental health officials say there is a growing need for this service.

"Seniors are at the highest risk levels for suicide and a lot of it is because of loneliness and isolation. And now more than ever they need us to reach out to them. Even to talk to somebody to let them know what's happening during the day," according to Duane Picciarilli, Mahoning Co. Mental Health & Recovery Board.

In addition to this service officials say it's a good idea to check-in on your senior neighbors from time to time just to make sure they are coping with being by themselves during this epidemic.

You can sign up for the staying connected service by going to the ohio department of aging website.