According to the global census, 70% of the people affected with coronavirus are above 60 years. 

Although much is still unknown about the COVID-19 disease, there is an indisputable fact amongst all ambiguity: senior citizens and the aged are among the most vulnerable groups at a higher risk of contracting the virus. Hence. as a senior citizen, you need to be careful even after the lockdown is lifted.

Many senior citizens suffer from underlying chronic health conditions or comorbidities, which reduces their immunity and increases their risk of contracting COVID-19. 

Here are some do’s and don’ts for keeping senior citizens safe during COViD-19. 

Do’s for Keeping Senior Citizens Safe During COVID-19

  • Stay at home. Venture out only if it is essential. Get help from family or friends to do grocery runs
  • If meeting with people is mandatory, maintain a distance of at least 1 meter from them. Wear a protective mask if stepping out
  • Wash your hands with soap and water frequently, especially after handling anything that came from outside
  • Disinfect items or surfaces that are frequently touched
  • Ensure that you are taking the prescribed doses of your medicines for pre-existing conditions and have enough stock of medicines
  • Try online and telephonic consultations with your doctor. Only visit the hospital when it is absolutely necessary as going to the hospital can expose you to COVID-19. 
  • Optimum hydration is a must at this time. Drink plenty of warm water with tulsi, herbal teas, and other unsweetened drinks and juices.
  • Get good quality nutrition through freshly cooked meals. Include leafy greens, Vitamin-C rich food and herbs like garlic, ginger, cumin, turmeric, and other spices
  • Physical movement and simple activities like walking inside the house can be considered to boost immunity in general
  • Stay in touch with your family and friends virtually through video conferencing or phone calls if living alone
  • Follow preventive measures like gargling with salt water, sipping tulsi water, inhalation and others
  • Make sure you get enough sleep
  • If you observe any symptoms of COVID-19, seek medical attention immediately

 

Don’ts for Keeping Senior Citizens Safe During COVID-19

  • Don’t sneeze or cough into your hands and keep your mouth covered
  • Don’t touch any part of your face unnecessarily with unclean hands
  • Please do not self-medicate. Always consult with your physician to start or stop any medications
  • Don’t watch too much news channels or updates regarding the pandemic that can overwhelm you and cause stress
  • Don’t travel or go to crowded places
  • Stay away from misinformation and “forwards” on Whatsapp or social media that cause unnecessary panic
  • Don’t allow too much visitors at your home who could be possible carriers of the virus
  • Don’t isolate yourself completely and succumb to loneliness. Ensure to stay in touch with your family and friends

 

Support Yourself

Concentrate on taking care of yourself and focus on other activities that you enjoy doing to beat away the lockdown blues. Maintain a daily routine of eating, sleeping, and exercising. It’s important to keep stress at bay and talk to someone if you are feeling depressed or anxious. Practice meditation and pranayama to rejuvenate and keep yourselves energized.

The elderly people need more care. If you are a caregiver, step up on basic preventive practices and support the senior citizens in your families.