COVID-19 has affected everyone from the younger generation to elderly adults. Many people have faced times of depression, anxiety, and loneliness during the COVID-19 pandemic. Health experts have stated that the elderly are more vulnerable than younger people.
There are many ways this virus affects the elderly. For instance, an elderly adult is more likely to get a severe form of COVID-19. They also are at a higher risk of experiencing mental health problems. There are other ways that this virus affects elderly adults, as well.
Pre-Existing Health Conditions and Elderly Adults
Data has shown the COVID-19 virus has hit elderly adults more than any other population. One reason this has happened is that many elderly adults have pre-existing health conditions which include the following:
Respiratory issues Diabetes Heart problems Lung disease
Pre-existing medical conditions can put your elderly loved one at a higher risk of getting COVID-19. This is why it is important to do your best to protect them during the pandemic. In addition, to pre-existing conditions, some seniors have a weaker immune system. This makes it harder for them to fight the virus off.
Dementia and COVID-19
Data also shows that many elderly adults who have dementia or Alzheimer’s have a higher risk of getting COVID-19.
People who have dementia or other cognitive impairments often don’t understand the dangers of COVID-19. This makes it even harder to keep them safe. Some people forget to take precautions that are recommended to them. For instance, some elderly adults forget to wash their hands, don’t think about social distancing, and can’t remember to wear a mask.
In-Home Care Workers and COVID-19
Many in-home care workers have contracted this virus. Some of them had to be hospitalized. Thankfully, many of them made a full recovery. If you are an elderly family caregiver or in-home care specialist, it is essential to practice the precautions needed to ensure the safety of your patients and loved ones. It will also help you to stay safe throughout the pandemic. However, if you do have any COVID-19 symptoms, you should call your doctor and seek guidance on how you should proceed at this point.
Conclusion
COVID-19 has affected everyone around our nation, especially the elder population. Many seniors have experienced depression and anxiety during this pandemic. Some contracted the virus and had to seek medical assistance. This is why it is important to remember that if your elderly loved one has COVID-19 symptoms, they should speak with their doctor immediately.
Sources: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/need-extra-precautions/older-adults.html
https://www.cdc.gov/aging/covid19-guidance.html