2024 Coronavirus and the elderly: What you need to know

The elderly and people with severe chronic health conditions like lung, heart, or kidney disease are at higher risk for COVID-19. With the seniors twice as likely to catch coronavirus, we need to take extra care to keep them safe and well.

The more you know about coronavirus and the elderly effects, the better your family can keep them safe and healthy.

According to the CDC, coronavirus’s risk for severe illness increases with age, putting older adults at the highest risk.

Be aware of the coronavirus and the elderly. Seniors or those in their 60s and 70s are at higher risk for severe illness than younger people. People aged 85 and older are at the highest risk for severe illness due to COVID-19.

Severe illnesses may require hospitalization, a ventilator, or intensive care to help them breathe and live.

The higher risk is attributed to how our immune system changes over time, and our bodies have a harder time fighting diseases and infections as we age.

Additionally, many older adults have underlying health conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases, making it difficult to cope and recover from illnesses.

Aside from these, age increases the risk of the respiratory system shutting down when an elderly had COVID-19 disease.

Understanding the different factors that increase the COVID-19 risk of coronavirus and the elderly will help us decide what kind of precautions to provide to our elderly family members and citizens.

To protect our elderly and those in our community, we need to learn the facts and follow the CDC recommendations.

FOR EASIER NAVIGATION:

• What is COVID-19?
• How Does Coronavirus Spread?
• Is There A Coronavirus Vaccine or Treatment?
• Does the Flu Shot Provide Protection Against COVID-19?
• How Can You Limit Your Exposure To COVID-19?
• What To Do To Prepare For COVID-19 In Your Community
• How To Keep Healthy During The Pandemic
• What To Do If You Have COVID-19 or Were Exposed to COVID-19
• Visiting A Loved One In A Nursing Home or Assisted Living Facility
• How To Support Older Adults
• Additional Questions & Answers On Coronavirus And The Elderly

Coronavirus And The Elderly

WHAT IS COVID-19?

COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by the new coronavirus. COVID-19 was first discovered in December 2019 in Wuhan, China.

Other coronaviruses disease includes Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS). Coronaviruses can cause respiratory tract infections ranging from the common cold to more serious respiratory illnesses, especially in people with pre-existing medical conditions.

The elderly and those with chronic underlying medical illnesses like lung and heart disease are much more susceptible to catching COVID-19.

COVID-19 was declared a pandemic or global outbreak by the World Health Organization on March 12, 2020.  

SYMPTOMS OF COVID-19

Coronavirus and the elderly, let’s understand the symptoms. COVID-19 symptoms can range from mild cough to pneumonia. People with COVID-19 may experience these symptoms:

• Fever
• Cough
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Or at least two of these symptoms:

• Runny nose
• Sore throat
• Headache
• Muscle pain
• Fatigue
• Chills
• Repeated shaking with chills
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Loss of taste or smell
• Loss of appetite
• Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
• Confusion or inability to arouse
• Bluish lips or face

Many COVID-19 patients with severe complications may develop pneumonia in both lungs. Research also shows that 1% of coronavirus cases may result in death. However, the death rate varies by age, with seniors with pre-existing conditions more likely to die.

How Does Coronavirus Spread?

COVID-19 is very similar to seasonal flu; it can be transmitted from person to person through sneezing, coughing, talking, or close contact, like touching or shaking hands. Droplets can land in the mouth or nose of nearby people and possibly be inhaled into the lungs.

COVID-19 can also be transmitted by touching a surface with the virus and then touching the nose, eyes, or mouth without washing the hands.

The virus spreads quickly, like the flu; it’s hard to contain.

The incubation period of coronavirus is between 2 and 14 days; people without symptoms could be transmitting the disease without even knowing it.

Is There A Coronavirus Vaccine Or Treatment?

Scientists and pharmaceutical companies are working to find a vaccine for this disease. Some vaccine treatments are scheduled by the end of 2020.

The World Health Organization announced that 20 potential vaccines are being tested to prevent coronavirus disease worldwide. COVID-19 treatments to relieve symptoms are already in clinical trials.

Currently, the existing drug Remdesivir with the combination of HIV and flu drugs, is being tested.

Does The Flu Shot Provide Protection Against Covid-19?

Seasonal flu is known to cause severe illness and complications in most seniors. It is estimated that 70-85% of seasonal flu-related deaths have occurred in people aged 65 and older.

Getting the flu shot reduces the seasonal flu risk. However, there’s still no evidence that the flu shot or pneumococcal vaccination can protect against coronavirus and the elderly in terms of coronavirus.

COVID-19 may injure lung cells and make it easier for pneumonia to affect people even if they have a vaccine. Some infectious disease specialists still recommend flu vaccination to prepare for coronavirus.

For older adults, having the pneumococcal vaccine or flu shot can increase the chances of staying healthy.

How Can You Limit Your Exposure To Covid-19?

1. Wash your hand often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds after coughing, sneezing, blowing your nose, or after you have been in a public place.

Wash your hands:

• Before touching your face
• Before eating or preparing food
• After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing
• After handling your face mask
• After using the restroom
• After leaving a public place
• After caring for someone sick
• After changing animals or pets
• After changing a diaper

2. If soap and water are not readily available, use alcohol or hand sanitizer containing 60% alcohol. Cover the surface of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry.

3. Avoid touching your nose, eyes, and mouth with unwashed hands.

4. Coughing or sneezing

• Always cover your mouth and nose with facial tissue when you cough or sneeze.
• Use the inside of your elbow to cough or sneeze if you don’t have facial tissue.
• Do not spit on the ground.
• Throw used facial tissues in a lidded trash bin.
• Immediately wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds after coughing or sneezing.
• If soap and water are not readily available, clean your hands with alcohol or hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.

5. Use a face mask or cloth cover to cover your mouth and nose when around other people. The face mask is intended to protect other people you come in contact with in case you are infected. You could transmit COVID-19 to others even if you don’t have symptoms

• You should always wear a cloth face cover in public places and around other people who don’t live in your household, especially when social distancing is difficult to maintain.
• Do not put a face mask on children under two years old or those who have trouble breathing, are unconscious, incapacitated, or cannot remove the mask or face cover without assistance.
• Use a facemask, but remember it is not a substitute for social distancing.

6. Keep physical distance from others. Keep about 6 feet or 2 meters between yourself and others.

7. Clean and disinfect commonly touched surfaces such as doorknobs, tables, desks, countertops, light switches, handles, keyboards, faucets, toilets, and sinks.

• Clean dirty surfaces with detergent or soap before disinfection.
• Use household disinfectant.

8. Limit your home visitors to a single-person visit. Don’t allow sick people to visit you.

9. Limit large group gatherings. Stay away from events where a large group of people will gather, such as large family events, classes, movies, and shows.

10. Avoid cruise travel. Avoid airline travel, especially to countries with large transmissions. If you must travel by plane, exercise good practices, keep a safe distance, wash your hands frequently, and use hand sanitizer or alcohol. Wipe commonly used surfaces such as tray seat control buttons, tables, and armrests with sanitizing wipes.

What To Do To Prepare For Covid-19 In Your Community

Know the special measures taken in your community to fight COVID-19. Know the available services during a health emergency, such as home deliveries, psychosocial support, and alternative access to your pension.

Create a list of the basic supplies you need that will last for at least two weeks. List non-perishable food items, household and hygiene products, batteries for your assistive devices, and prescription medications.

Ask family members or caregivers to help you order your needs online. Make sure your mobile phone credit is sufficient. Charge your phone regularly to contact your family and friends and reach emergency services if needed.

Make a list of emergency numbers such as your nearby hospital, COVID-19 local helpline, health emergency numbers, the hotline for abuse victims, and the psychosocial support hotline.

Also, list your caregiving support numbers for family members, friends, caregivers, and community care workers. If you live alone, ask the people on your list to be in touch regularly through phone or video chat.

Ask your healthcare worker how to address your health needs during the pandemic. You may postpone non-urgent doctor appointments and opt for a telehealth consultation by phone or video chat instead of an in-person consultation.

If you rely on caregivers, assign a person you trust to support your daily living care if your primary caregiver cannot provide care. Ask your family to note all the care and assistance you require and how it will be provided in case your primary caregiver is sick.

Prepare a separate room in your home if multiple people live with you. If anyone is showing symptoms of coronavirus, isolate them in the room you identify for isolation.

If you don’t have a place for self-isolation, contact your health authorities to see if there are community spaces where you or your family member can self-isolate.

How To Keep Healthy During The Pandemic

1. Keep your regular routines such as meal times, sleeping, and other daily activities. Do not let the pandemic disrupt your daily schedule.

2. Be physically active every day. Use household chores to keep you physically active. Reduce long periods of sitting, and exercise for at least 30 minutes. Make sure your exercise routine is safe and appropriate to your fitness level indicated by your doctor.

3. Eat healthy and well-balanced meals. Drink enough water to keep you hydrated.

4. Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol. Smoking can affect lung capacity, and it increases the possibility of respiratory problems. Drinking alcohol will disturb your sleep and increase your risk of falls. It may also interact with your prescription medicines.

5. We are aware of coronavirus and the elderly. Take your prescribed medicines if you have ongoing health conditions. Follow your doctor’s advice and have a telehealth consultation if necessary.

6. Engage in activities or hobbies that you enjoy. Reading a book, cooking, or gardening will keep you active. Learn something new. There are many videos on the internet to help you find exciting activities.

7. Stay socially connected. Keep in touch with your loved ones and friends through the phone, video calls, or messaging. Use social media to stay socially connected.

8. Take breaks from news coverage about the pandemic. Prolonged exposure to news may make you feel anxious and desperate. Check updates from reliable sources like the CDC or WHO website.

9. Contact your health care provider if you have an emergency medical condition unrelated to coronavirus.

10. Seek psychosocial support if fear, sadness, or worry are getting into your daily activities. There are support services that can help you in your community.

What To Do If You Have Covid-19 Or Were Exposed To Covid-19

If you have coronavirus symptoms such as fever, cough, shortness of breath, muscle pain, sore throat, headache, chills, repeated shaking with chills, and loss of taste or smell, get in touch with your healthcare provider within 24 hours.

Call by phone first and give information about your pre-existing health conditions and prescription medication. Follow the instructions of your doctor and monitor your symptoms regularly.

Call your healthcare provider immediately if you have severe symptoms such as trouble breathing, persistent pain, pressure in the chest, confusion, bluish lips, or face. Be prepared to go to the hospital as soon as possible—call 911 for a medical emergency.

We should be careful about coronavirus and the elderly. If you live with others, isolate yourself as soon as you feel the symptoms. If you suspect an infection, use your room to isolate yourself.

Let the members of your household wear a mask or face covering to protect themselves.

If you live in a home care facility, advise your caregiver about your symptoms. Let your household members follow available guidelines about COVID-19 infection.

Contact your primary health care worker and tell them your symptoms if you live alone. Ask your family, friends, neighbors, or a local volunteer organization to check on you regularly to provide support as needed.

Visiting A Loved One In A Nursing Home Or Assisted Living Facility

Due to the coronavirus and the elderly risks, many facilities have updated their visiting policies as COVID-19 cases increase in the US. Some health care facilities have limited visitor policies in place.

Some nursing homes and assisted living facilities have eliminated visiting to keep patients safe and healthy. Check the facility’s website or call them to know if there are visitation changes in the place where your loved ones live.

If visiting is allowed in the facility, follow these general guidelines:

• If you can, visit your loved one alone, and do not visit in large groups.
• Wear a face mask or cloth face covering when you visit the facility.
• Wash your hand or apply hand sanitizer when you enter and leave the facility. Use sanitizing wipes to wipe high-touch surfaces such as doorknobs, tables, and chairs.
• Do not visit your loved one in the nursing home or assisted living facility if you are not feeling well.
• If your in-person visit is non-essential, visit your loved ones virtually using a computer or smartphone.
• If your loved one is sick when you visit, ask the caregiver to give them a face mask.

The healthcare staff at the facility caring for your loved one will direct you on what to do during your visit.

CORONAVIRUS AND THE ELDERLY

How To Support Older Adults

We can show our support to older adults during this time of the pandemic. Most older adults depend on the support and services provided in their homes to maintain health and independence.

What family members, caregivers, and neighbors can do:

• Know what prescription medications your older loved one is taking and ensure they are amply supplied. Make sure there’s a two-week or longer supply of medicines.
• Monitor their food and other medical supplies such as oxygen, dialysis, wound care, and other needs.
• Stock up on groceries and non-perishable food items in the home to minimize going out and trips to the stores.
• If you have a loved one in a nursing home or living care facility, monitor their health, and ask about other residents’ health.
• Keep your communication open. Regularly call your older loved one through the phone or video calls.
• Always disinfect frequently touched surfaces and use a face mask when leaving the house.

The best way to protect yourself and your older loved ones is to reduce the coronavirus spread. Coronavirus and the elderly are topics we should be aware of. Limit our interactions with other people as much as possible.

Take precautions like wearing a face mask or cloth face covering when you interact with others. If you feel any symptoms of COVID-19, get in touch with your doctor within 24 hours.

As communities and businesses start to open, you may think about resuming some activities, shopping, and attending events and gatherings.

If you are at increased risk from COVID-19 and live with older adults, consider your level of risk before deciding to go out. Protect yourself and avoid going to places where social distancing can’t be maintained.

Staying healthy during this COVID-19 pandemic is important. Talk to your doctor if you need vaccinations and other preventive medical services to keep you healthy and help prevent you from becoming ill with other diseases.

Additional Questions & Answers On Coronavirus And The Elderly

Are the elderly more vulnerable to coronavirus disease?

Different people will have different levels of susceptibility to the disease. However, it is generally believed that older people are more likely to experience severe symptoms if they contract the virus. This is because the human immune system typically weakens with age, making it less able to fight off infections.

Why are older people at significant risk of COVID-19?

The elderly are at increased risk from COVID-19 for several reasons. Firstly, as mentioned above, their immune systems are generally weaker, so they are less able to fight off the disease. Secondly, many elderly people have underlying health conditions that can make them more vulnerable to the virus. These include conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and respiratory problems. Finally, the elderly are also more likely to live close to other people, increasing their chances of contracting the virus.

What can be done to protect the elderly from coronavirus disease?

Several things can be done to protect the elderly from COVID-19. Firstly, it is important to ensure they are vaccinated against the disease. It is also important to ensure they practice good hygiene, such as washing their hands regularly and avoiding close contact with sick people. Finally, it is important to ensure that the elderly have access to quality healthcare and receive prompt treatment if they become ill.

Who is at higher risk of developing serious illness from COVID-19?

While anyone can develop serious illness from COVID-19, some people are at higher risk than others. These include people with underlying health conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, and respiratory problems. Other higher-risk groups include the elderly, pregnant women, and young children.

What are the symptoms of COVID-19?

The most common symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Other symptoms include body aches, diarrhea, and vomiting. In severe cases, the disease can lead to pneumonia, which can be fatal.

How is COVID-19 diagnosed?

COVID-19 is typically diagnosed through a physical examination and laboratory tests. These tests may include chest x-rays, blood tests, and viral cultures.

How is COVID-19 treated?

There is no specific treatment for COVID-19. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and supporting the respiratory system. This may include oxygen therapy, pain relief, and fluids. In severe cases, patients may require mechanical ventilation.

What should I do if I think I have symptoms of COVID-19?

If you think you have symptoms of COVID-19, it is important to see a doctor immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical for the best possible outcome.

What is the prognosis for elderly people?

The prognosis for elderly people with COVID-19 is generally poorer than for younger people. This is because the elderly are more likely to experience severe symptoms and complications from the disease. However, treatment is typically effective in relieving symptoms and supporting the respiratory system.

What are the organs most affected by COVID‐19?

The organs most affected by COVID-19 are the lungs and the respiratory system. This is because the disease causes pneumonia, which can be fatal. Other organs that may be affected include the heart, kidneys, and liver.

What should I do if someone in my family has COVID-19?

If someone in your family has COVID-19, practicing good hygiene and avoiding close contact with them is crucial. You should also ensure they access quality healthcare to receive prompt treatment. Finally, you should monitor your health closely and see a doctor immediately if you develop any disease symptoms.

In what conditions does COVID-19 survive the longest?

COVID-19 can survive for long periods on surfaces, such as door handles, countertops, and other hard surfaces. It can also survive in the air for several hours. This is why it is important to practice good hygiene, such as washing your hands regularly and avoiding close contact with sick people.

Are smokers more likely to develop severe diseases with COVID-19?

There is no definitive answer to this question. However, smokers are more likely to develop respiratory problems, which can increase the severity of COVID-19.

In what conditions does COVID-19 survive the longest?

COVID-19 can survive for long periods on surfaces, such as door handles, countertops, and other hard surfaces. It can also survive in the air for several hours. This is why it is important to practice good hygiene, such as washing your hands regularly and avoiding close contact with sick people.

What are the long‐term effects of COVID-19?

The long-term effects of COVID-19 are not yet known. However, the disease can lead to pneumonia, which can be fatal. Additionally, COVID-19 may cause other long-term effects, such as organ damage.

What is the incubation period for COVID-19?

The incubation period for COVID-19 is typically two to fourteen days. This means that symptoms may appear anywhere from two days to two weeks after exposure to the virus.

What is the mortality rate for COVID-19?

The mortality rate for COVID-19 is currently unknown. However, the disease appears more deadly in elderly people and those with underlying health conditions.

What is the difference between people who have asymptomatic or pre-symptomatic COVID-19?

People who have asymptomatic COVID-19 do not experience any symptoms of the disease. Pre-symptomatic COVID-19 refers to people who will eventually develop symptoms but are not yet experiencing them.

What are the complications of COVID-19?

COVID-19 can lead to pneumonia, which can be fatal. Additionally, the disease may cause other long-term effects, such as organ damage.

Can COVID-19 lead to mental and neurological complications?

There is no evidence that COVID-19 can lead to mental or neurological complications.

What is the difference between COVID-19 and the flu?

COVID-19 and the flu are both respiratory illnesses caused by viruses. However, there are several key differences between the two diseases. For example, COVID-19 appears more deadly than the flu, especially in elderly people and those with underlying health conditions. Additionally, COVID-19 has a longer incubation period than the flu.

What are the signs and symptoms of the coronavirus disease?

The most common signs and symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, coughing, and shortness of breath. However, the disease can also cause other less common symptoms, such as loss of smell or taste, fatigue, muscle pain, headache, sore throat, and diarrhea.

How does COVID-19 spread?

COVID-19 spreads from an infected person through contact with respiratory secretions, such as saliva or mucus. The virus can also spread through contact with objects or surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus.

Can the coronavirus survive on surfaces?

Yes, the coronavirus can survive on surfaces for long periods. This is why it is important to practice good hygiene, such as washing your hands regularly and avoiding close contact with sick people.

Can COVID-19 spread through the water while swimming?

There is no evidence that COVID-19 can spread through the water while swimming. However, the virus can spread through contact with an infected person through respiratory secretions, such as saliva or mucus.

Is a smoker at a higher risk of getting the COVID-19 virus than a non-smoker?

There is no definitive answer to this question. However, smokers are more likely to develop respiratory problems, which can increase the severity of COVID-19.

Can COVID-19 spread through food?

There is no evidence that COVID-19 can spread through food. However, the virus can spread through contact with an infected person through respiratory secretions, such as saliva or mucus.

Are canned vegetables good alternatives to eat during COVID-19 quarantine?

Canned vegetables are a good alternative to eat during the COVID-19 quarantine. They are shelf-stable and do not require cooking.

Can asymptomatic people transmit COVID-19?

Yes, asymptomatic people can transmit COVID-19. This is why it is important to practice good hygiene, such as washing your hands regularly and avoiding close contact with sick people.

What are the chances of surviving COVID-19?

The chances of surviving COVID-19 depend on many factors, such as age, underlying health conditions, and the severity of the disease. However, overall, the chances of surviving COVID-19 are good.

Can pre-symptomatic transmission occur with the coronavirus disease?

Yes, pre-symptomatic transmission can occur with COVID-19. This is why it is important to practice good hygiene, such as washing your hands regularly and avoiding close contact with sick people.

What should I do if I think I have COVID-19?

If you think you have COVID-19, you should contact your healthcare provider immediately. You should also self-isolate and practice good hygiene, such as washing your hands regularly and avoiding close contact with sick people.

Which types of settings do COVID-19 spread more easily?

COVID-19 spreads more easily in settings where there is close contact, such as schools, offices, and hospitals. The virus can also spread through contact with an infected person through respiratory secretions, such as saliva or mucus.

Can you contract COVID-19 by touching contaminated surfaces?

Yes, you can contract COVID-19 by touching contaminated surfaces. This is why it is important to practice good hygiene, such as washing your hands regularly and avoiding close contact with sick people.

Can the coronavirus survive on surfaces?

Yes, the coronavirus can survive on surfaces for long periods. This is why it is important to practice good hygiene, such as washing your hands regularly and avoiding close contact with sick people.

Can I contact people if I’m wearing a mask during COVID-19?

Yes, you can have close contact with people if you’re wearing a mask during COVID-19. However, practicing good hygiene, such as washing your hands regularly and avoiding close contact with sick people, is still important.

What can I do to prevent COVID-19 during grocery shopping?

There are several things you can do to prevent COVID-19 during grocery shopping. You should practice good hygiene, such as washing your hands regularly and avoiding close contact with sick people. You should also wear a mask and gloves when you go to the store.

What should I do if I have symptoms of COVID-19?

If you have symptoms of COVID-19, you should contact your healthcare provider immediately. You should also self-isolate and practice good hygiene, such as washing your hands regularly and avoiding close contact with sick people.