Here is the latest advice from public health experts about the best way to protect yourself and to reduce the spread of the virus that causes COVID-19.
Here are four major reminders and tips:
1. Remember your health! Many older adults have one or more chronic conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, or hypertension. For managing these conditions, consider seeing your doctor using telehealth, an Internet service provided by the medical industry.
Many health care providers stress patients to schedule routine visits on vaccinations and other preventive services to prevent disease.
Do not delay emergency care, if you are experiencing shortness of breath, chest pain, or discomfort in your arms, back, or neck, all symptoms of a heart attack or stroke.
2. Practice physical distancing! The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) strongly recommends you wear a cloth face covering or mask when you are around people who don’t live in your household.
It’s still best to limit your physical interactions with family or friends, staying outdoors for optimal ventilation and keeping six feet apart.
3. Use common-sense actions! You should clean frequently-touched surfaces in your home at least once per day.
Manage stress, get enough sleep, and wash your hands often for 20 seconds with soap and water. Use hand sanitizer with 60% alcohol as an alternative.
Eat healthful foods, have 30 days of medication, and try to stay physically and socially active.
4. Ask for help! If you are at highrisk of complications from COVID-19 or are unable to get items you need, contact your family or friends for help!
If you’re having trouble paying your bills, visit www.benefitscheckup.org for hundreds of programs that help older adults pay for food, housing, utilities, medication, and more.
We hope you and your loved ones are safe and healthy during this crisis using these tips! Courtesy of National Council on Aging (NCOA).