11 Tips for Aging Persons During a Pandemic

Older people face a higher risk of becoming ill during a pandemic because they may have weaker immune systems. Elderly persons with chronic illnesses are at higher risk.

It is crucial to be aware of the best ways of looking out for them.

Here are some ways to protect yourself during a pandemic, if you are part of this more vulnerable group.

Continue taking vitamin supplements

Many people take vitamin supplements to support a healthy immune system. Hence, it is wise to keep up with your supplements to help your body fight infections more effectively. If you aren’t taking any supplements, you can get in touch with your health care provider to find out if you can start, especially if you have any chronic illnesses. Some of the supplements recommended are vitamin B12, calcium, and vitamin D. It is essential to bear in mind that not all supplements aid in supporting a healthy immune system.

Continue taking your medications

You must continue your medication while quarantined. Therefore, make sure you have your regular medication readily available or well-stocked. You can talk to a health care professional about having access to 2 months of medicines during isolation. If you’re living with other people, you can speak to them about your need to stock up on medical supplies as well.

Thoroughly wash your hands

Washing your hands thoroughly or staying sanitized while you stay at home can never be overemphasized. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and, ideally, warm water for at least 20 seconds. Use hand sanitizers (at least 60% alcohol) and avoid touching your face, nose, and mouth. Keep your home and frequently touched surfaces disinfected using an EPA-registered disinfectant.

Maintain a healthy diet

Being in isolation does not mean you have to worry about not eating healthy. Making eating a healthy diet one of your priorities is advisable. Focus on foods that aid in boosting your immune system and foods that can protect you from infections and harmful viruses. Limit or avoid sugary foods, fatty foods, and alcohol. Focus on diets rich in lean meats as well as fruits and vegetables. Increase your intake of food rich in antioxidants, which help protect your cells from damage. 

Avoid sharing personal items

Avoid sharing personal or hygiene items such as utensils, water bottles, food, and bathing soap with others. This small reflex can play a significant role in protecting you and your loved ones from getting infected or spreading the infection.

Get enough sleep

Getting plenty of rest is a compelling way of staying healthy and reducing your stress levels. Make sure you not only get enough sleep every night but that you get enough rest throughout the day. One of the significant reasons you may be more vulnerable to illnesses is due to too much stress and not enough rest. So make sure you get enough sleep.

Remain active

Staying healthy and remaining active does not require that you go outside. You can be active every day while saying in. Being active plays a significant role in helping your body fight off infections and inflammation. You can do household chores.  You can also try meditation as well as stretching exercises. There are also many free or discounted apps and videos of different exercise programs, stretching activities, and meditations available (Google and so many will pop up). However, you should speak with your health care provider if you are starting an exercise program or changing what you were already doing.

Keep in touch with your caregiver

A lot of older people have caregivers, and some are caregivers. Talk to your caregiver or your caregiver service about who can provide you with care if your regular caregiver falls ill. If you are a caregiver, you need to make sure that you and the person you are caring for take the necessary precautions to avoid getting infected.

Stay at home

Understand that the advice to stay at home during a pandemic is good advice. If you are not infected, stay at home unless it is an essential trip. If you need groceries, you can shop online or ask a family member. Contact a health professional if you have a persistent dry cough and a high fever.

Take precautions if living in a residential home

If you are at a residential care home, make sure you avoid large groups and maintain the necessary distance from your fellow residents as much as possible. In many residential care homes, visitors may not be allowed in order to protect the residents. Handwashing is very important, and you should consider wearing a mask (likely cloth) to help lower your exposure. For some residents, leaving the home may be an option during the pandemic.

Avoid large crowds

If you live at home with a large family, make sure you keep a safe distance from others. Try to avoid shaking hands or close physical contact. Continue frequent handwashing and disinfecting of frequently-used areas.

• 

• 

• 

Many of these suggestions are similar to those you would give to people with compromised immune systems and other high-risk people. But they are not bad steps for most people to embrace as well

Stay safe!

Loving Life — The Reboot!

Dominique

This article provides general information and discussion about health and related subjects. The information and other content provided in this article, or in any linked materials, are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice. Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having.