At this point during the COVID-19 pandemic, you’re probably aware that seniors, ages 60 and over, are at a higher risk of severe illness from contracting the novel coronavirus.
Research has shown that the elderly, particularly those suffering from preexisting medical conditions such as lung disease, cardiovascular disease, cancer, or diabetes, are more vulnerable to the disease. Several similar cases have even proven fatal.
Even for the people who are in perfect health, the immune system becomes weaker with age. This makes it very hard for the body to fight off infectious diseases such as the coronavirus. Additionally, chronic diseases that are more frequent with age, can compromise the immune system making the body more vulnerable to severe complications.
That’s why it’s so important that the elderly exercise cautionary measures to prevent them from contracting the virus. Here are a few healthcare tips suited to help seniors stay in the best health possible during this pandemic era. But first, let’s take a much deeper look into why the elderly are highly impacted by Covid-19.
Why Are the Elderly Especially Vulnerable To COVID-19
As highlighted above, the risk of becoming severely ill from the coronavirus is heightened with age. As per the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 8 out of 10 people who have lost their lives from Covid-19 are aged 65 or higher.
White blood cells, or leukocytes, are the body’s first line of defense against bacteria. They act fast to destroy the intruders then they communicate to the B and T cells, the second-line defenders about the likely invasion.
Efficient right? Yes, but unfortunately, this strategy becomes less effective the more we age.
The white blood cells in an older person are not as good at communicating as when the body was younger. The communication they relay is less clear, prompting the B and T cells to exercise a much slower approach.
There’s also the fact that the white blood cells in older people tend to give more authority to the T cells which continue to fight the disease. In the process, they produce an inflammatory response that causes a common complication of Covid-19 known as acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).
Another reason elderly people are at high risk is that their bodies produce fewer T cells. That means the body has fewer ‘officers’ to counter new intruders.
Tips for Seniors To Stay Safe From COVID-19
The coronavirus pandemic has altered the normal daily routines for almost everyone. Many governments around the world, the U.S included, had to impose lockdowns among many other preemptive measures.
Now counties and communities are gradually starting to reopen after the first surge of infections. Many people want to dine at a restaurant, get their hair cut, and visit friends and family they have not seen in a long while.
However, the easing of measures does not mean that the coronavirus is no longer present. With no viable medication or vaccine anywhere in sight just yet, seniors and their caregivers should be concerned about going back to their normal routines.
Here are a few protective measures that they can observe to stay safe from the coronavirus.
1. Wear a Face Mask When in Public
Seniors must observe public health guidelines and follow all safety measures put in place to keep the public safe. These measures include observing social distancing, maintaining good hand hygiene, wearing a face mask, and limiting the size of gatherings in a social space.
Research has shown that Covid-19 primarily spreads through inhaling respiratory droplets carrying coronavirus-causing pathogens and when a person comes into contact with a contaminated surface. By wearing a face covering and constantly cleaning their hands, seniors can minimize the risk of getting infected by the virus.
2. Be Aware of the Risks
For seniors, having to stay at home seems like a good safety measure but this will not be fully practical in the long-term. At some point, they will have to visit or receive family or run a few errands.
It may sound intimidating and it should since lives are at risk, but seniors need to understand that any activities they engage outside their homes will come with the possibility of contracting Covid-19.
It’s therefore imperative that seniors understand if Covid-19 spreads in their communities, if they face a high risk of severe illness, and if they will keep close contact with someone such as a family member or caregiver, who is not observing safety measures.
3. Practice Social Distancing But Not Social Isolation
One effective way for seniors to lower the risk of getting Covid-19 is to restrict the number of people visiting. This may be difficult for older people who adore spending time with their friends and family members.
However, physical distancing doesn’t necessarily mean isolating oneself since this might lead to feelings of loneliness or depression. For seniors, this might have a negative effect on their immunity and mental health.
One way seniors can feel less lonely is by learning how to video chat with people they hold dear through smartphones and computers.
4. Stay Physically Active and Up To Date With Medications
With certain changes to their lifestyle, seniors can improve their overall well-being as well as reduce the risk of infection from Covid-19 and other diseases.
Elders must get at least 7 hours of sleep at night. They tend to have strange sleeping patterns and an uneven sleep routine may give them stress. Older adults should also observe a healthy diet. By eating nutritious meals, they can better their health and well-being.
It’s also important for seniors to adhere to medication instructions as prescribed by a physician or doctor especially if they have a chronic health condition.
Safety Isn't Expensive, It's Priceless
The novel coronavirus is a disease that requires swift responses and lifestyle changes on several fronts. As the world finds a way to deal with the pandemic, seniors and their caregivers should assess risk factors and try to understand the level of infection risk in their neighborhoods.
With the help of caregivers, seniors can stick to healthy routines to help them remain calm, comforted, and safe. Regular low-impact exercise, meditation, and yoga are also great ways for the elderly to stay healthy and active.
Caregivers should seek advice from a healthcare provider if necessary, to determine which other activities are safe and what protective measures they can implement to keep seniors safe from the virus.
