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Caring for The Elderly During Covid-19

  • May 10, 2021
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Caring for the elderly during COVID 19

The global health crisis caused by the coronavirus is currently affecting the majority of people across all sectors of society. During this difficult time, we should keep the elderly in mind, as their routines and usual support systems may be disrupted. An elderly or older adult is anyone belonging to the 60 and above age bracket. Elderly people are more likely to experience anxiety and stress about the COVID-19 pandemic.

Elderly citizens are more vulnerable to COVID – 19 because of the following factors:

  • Immunity declines/decreases with age.
  • Pre-existing medical conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, heart and lung diseases, etc.
  • Inadequate intake of a nutritious and well-balanced diet.
  • Persistent anxiety and fear about one's own and one's family's health.

Quick tips for the elderly

  • Get at least 8 hours of sleep each night and stick to a regular sleeping schedule.
  • Avoid coffee, tea 4-6 hours before bedtime.
  • Stop using phones for at least two hours before going to bed.
  • Ensure that the elderly continue to be active by exercising as much as possible.
  • Take your regular prescribed medications on time.
  • Visitors should be limited to one or two at a time.
  • Request every visitor to wash their hands and keep a six-foot distance.
  • Topics of discussion that can lead to the conflict should be avoided.

Important things to keep in mind

It starts with you

Things will not go well if you unnecessarily step out, mingle with others, and break Social Distancing norms before returning to your home. If you do not follow the rules, you may become infected with the virus and pass it on to the elders in your home. Children and the elderly should not be allowed to leave the house, and adults should only leave the house to get necessities.

Tele-consultation

Rely on technology to communicate with doctors (tele-medicine) without leaving their homes. Discuss their medical condition with their doctor and determine what action is required given the circumstances. If you need to see a doctor right away, make sure you follow all necessary precautions, such as wearing masks and washing your hands.

Stock-up Medicine

Some elderly people rely on medications even for basic functions. Check their prescription list and stock up on them. Consult doctor about the amount of medicine that should be kept on hand. Make sure that you do not engage in panic buying when it comes to their medications, but rather just be proactive in ensuring that they have a stock of essential medicines.

Avoid social isolation

Elders may be accustomed to a particular way of life, such as going to a place of worship, garden, and so on. They will be unable to maintain their social lives as a result of social distancing. Assist them in making a phone call to friends or family. Video calling with their family circles and children can bring them joy.

These precaution tips are brought to you by myHealthmeter.

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