How the Coronavirus Can Affect Older Adults

In light of COVID-19, it is important for all to stay vigilant and protect ourselves as best we can. While COVID-19 can affect a person of any age or sex, certain groups are at a greater risk of severe illness. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), these groups include:

• People aged 65 years and older
• People who live in a nursing home or long-term care facility
• Other high-risk conditions could include:
  • People with chronic lung disease or moderate to severe asthma
  • People who have serious heart conditions
  • People who are immunocompromised including cancer treatment
  • People of any age with severe obesity (body mass index [BMI] >40) or certain underlying medical conditions, particularly if not well controlled, such as those with diabetes, renal failure, or liver disease might also be at risk

Reports from the CDC have shown that 8 out of 10 deaths reported in the United States have been in adults 65 years and older. This staggering statistic serves as another reason why taking this disease seriously should be important to all of us. Recommendations for people over 65 include: 

• Stay home if possible
• Wash your hands often
• Avoid close contact (6 feet, which is about two arm lengths) with people who are sick
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces
• Avoid all travel (air and cruise)
• Call your health care professional if you have concerns about COVID-19 and your underlying condition or if you are sick

With such a deadly disease our offices are putting in place measures to better serve and protect our clients during this time. For more questions on how to best combat this disease and what your local ComForCare team can do for you, please contact us.