Ideas On Why Houston Seniors Need Support During The COVID-19 Pandemic
COVID-19 has had catastrophic effects on all nations of the world. People of all colors, ages, and sizes are being affected at an unprecedented rate. Perhaps the worst part of it is that it is snatching away the lives of those with pre-existing chronic medical conditions (cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and diabetes), as well as those who are generally older since they have weakened immune systems. Though everyone is at risk of contracting the virus, these groups are more likely to develop complications and in the worst-case scenario, death.
Every day, a report of tens of thousands of deaths occurs all over the world. Of these, 95% are over 60 years of age, with 50% of the group being over 80 years of age. The question of controlling the pandemic has therefore been reevaluated left, right, and center, and mechanisms of containing the disease undertaken by all governments in response to the World Health Organization (WHO) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). From social distancing, masks, washing hands regularly, lockdown, and many others, the message is loud and clear: Contain the virus.
One area that has perhaps not been exhaustively explored is the matter of the most vulnerable people in the population, the aged. Support for this group is imperative during these tough times. Families, caregivers, and the general population have a humanitarian responsibility to preserve the lives of the aged as much as they can. During the toughest moments, the best we can do as human beings support one another, and this should be part of every country’s comprehensive response to the pandemic.
It starts with the dissemination of information to ensure that the entire population, older people included, understand the vulnerability of these groups and the need to protect them. They should be informed on the steps to take to maintain the mental and physical health of the aged. Additionally, when they fall ill, they should be directed on the steps to take. Second, comes the provision of social care, basic supplies, nutritious food, medicine when need be, and all supplies need in these times of isolation.
Since older people rely on others for sustenance, it is the responsibility of all the others to make sure that they are protected and mentally sound. Caregivers should continue providing proper care, maintaining daily routines, helping them stay physically active, and ensure that they eat nutritiously balanced meals. Social interaction is important too. While physical distancing may make this challenging, families should find ways to interact with their loved ones since they are oblivious to digital social media. If you cant visit grandpa, give them a call through their caregiver every day so that they do not feel abandoned.
3 Key Messages to Take Home in Light of this:
- While older people are at risk of contracting the virus, anyone can get it, and we must all unite to prevent community transmission.
- Health and social care workers, our heroes, should be provided with the right personal protective equipment, training, and information since they are at the frontline of taking care of our loved ones.
- It is everyone’s noble responsibility to protect the most vulnerable people, the aged.
Call us or contact Assisting Hands Houston today with any questions you might have! Visit our blog for more exciting articles about senior care in Houston.
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