Corona alert: Dos and Don'ts for older adults
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Corona alert: Dos and Don'ts for older adults

Tips come from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and geriatricians.

Corona alert: Dos and Don'ts for older adults

While novel coronavirus can infect persons of all age groups, people aged 60 and above are at higher risk of dreaded infection. Here are some tips for the older adults to prepare and protect themselves against the novel coronavirus. 

First and foremost, don't ignore the symptoms. Fever, dry cough and difficulty in breathing are some of the symptoms of the infection. If you notice any such symptoms, rush for medical help. 

Mind it, the virus contageous disease that spreads from one person to another. 

The tips come from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Drs. Carla Perissinotto and Samir Sinha, both geriatricians.

  • Precautions

Cancel non-essential doctor’s appointments

Schedule tele-health sessions for appointments you can’t miss

Designate an emergency contact

Wash your hands frequently (scrub for 20 seconds with soap and water)

If soap is not available, use hand sanitiser

  • Stock up essentials 

Ensure enough groceries and household products last you a “prolonged period of time” at home

Consider mail ordering rather than going for prescription medication  

  • Travel

Avoid nonessential travel especially air travel 
Don’t go on a cruise – cruise ship passengers are at a higher risk of infection

  • Life

Remain indoors as much as possible if your locality is witnessing an outbreak

While in public, avoid crowds and poorly ventilated buildings

Keep several feet of distance from people

After going in public, wash your hands with soap 

If you need to isolate, keep in touch with family and friends

  • Nursing homes

Most long-term care facilities have pandemic plans

Call facility staff for information on their plan

If you’re sick, do not visit a nursing home

If you’re visiting a nursing home in an outbreak area, get screened before entering

Figure out an alternative mode of communication if a nursing home bans visitors

  • If you think you’re sick

Call your doctor before going in for a test

Don’t use public transportation and stay at home as much as possible

Call a local coronavirus hotline for more information