Media contact(s):
Mary Louise Madigan: (216) 698-2521; mlmadigan@cuyahogacounty.us 
Kathie Sizemore: (216) 443-6181; kathleen.sizemore@jfs.ohio.gov 

CUYAHOGA COUNTY, OH – Cuyahoga County residents aged 60 and over can get connected to services and programs to help them age successfully by contacting the Division of Senior and Adult Services’ (DSAS) new “Connection Center.” The “DSAS Connection Center” is a free service staffed by trained social workers with extensive knowledge of the programs available to assist eligible adults over 60 and adults ages 18-59 living with disabilities.

“We know it’s important for older adults to have a central location where they can find the services they need to live safely and independently,” said County Executive Armond Budish. “The DSAS Connection Center is one way we are working to support our neighbors in a responsive, age-friendly way.”

Formerly referred to as the “Centralized Intake Line,” the “DSAS Connection Center” provides seamless handling of customer calls and connection to DSAS programs, as well as facilitating response, tracking and follow up by making referrals to our extensive network of community partners. In 2021, DSAS received over 17,000 calls for services, information, referrals and reports of elder abuse. Top reasons for contacting DSAS last year included reports of self-neglect, and requests for COVID-19 resources, homemaking services and home delivered meals.

“We are excited to promote our new ‘Connection Center’, which focuses on providing our residents with excellent customer service and efficient information around the clock,” said DSAS’ Interim Administrator, Natasha Pietrocola. “Our goal is to make it easy for customers and clients to connect with the assistance and services they need. In addition, the ‘DSAS Connection Center’ helps streamline the reporting of allegations of elder abuse in Cuyahoga County.”

The ”DSAS Connection Center” can be reached at 216-420-6700. The Center is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for general assistance, and 24 hours a day, seven days a week, for reports of elder abuse.

DSAS’ mission is to empower older adults and adults with disabilities to age successfully by providing resources that support and preserve their independence. In 2021, DSAS made over 70,000 direct contacts with clients in our community, providing services such as adult protection, in-home skilled and personal care, transportation, meals, benefits assistance, programming and more. For information, visit dsas.cuyahogacounty.us or call 216-420-6700 24 hours a day.