There is a lot of uncertainty going on in the world with the COVID-19 pandemic, especially regarding the precautions to be taken by senior citizens. Although anyone can get COVID-19, seniors are more susceptible to get the more serious end of the disease.

Below are some of the Pre existing conditions prone to COVID-19

The elderly people and the ones with the underlying pre-existing conditions are at high risk of inheriting COVID-19

• Adults of 65 years or older
• Anyone living in a nursing home or living facilities
• Suffering from 
  • Chronic Lung disease
  • Asthma
  • Severe heart conditions
  • Immunocompromised
  • Diabetes
  • Severe obesity
  • Liver disease
  • Kidney disease and undergoing dialysis      

If anyone is having one or more of the above attributes, it is important to take extra care and precautions to ensure one’s health is not compromised.     

Safety Measures

The Doctors highly recommend to do the following to keep healthy: 

• Self-quarantine in your home
• Wash your hand frequently with 20-second intervals. If you don’t have hand soap available then use hand sanitizer which contains at least 60% alcohol
• Avoid touching your nose, mouth or eyes
• Maintain a minimum of 6 ft distance in case you go out. Although you are in the house, it’s better to maintain distance from your family
• If you have to go out, make sure you cover your nose and mouth with a mask 
• If you sneeze or cough, cover it with your elbow or napkin, do not do it in your hands. After sneezing or cough wash your hands immediately
• Disinfect items that are frequently touched such as doorknobs, remote controls, phones, faucet handles, etc.
• Avoid Travelling
• Consult a doctor and find out about how your risks are and how these conditions affect you with COVID-19

Healthy Lifestyle

Exercise

Staying home for such a long time can make you lazier, therefore it is recommended to get exercise regularly. You can go out to your balcony or terrace and do some stretching with a 15 mins walk which allows you to to get some fresh air and feels relaxing. Doing this is in the morning is a great idea as your body can get some vitamin D.

On the other side, it’s very important to stay healthy mentally. You can pass time by playing board games, puzzles, or crossword with your loved ones.  Doing so will not only help you pass time but will stimulate cognitive health.

Diet

It’s pretty hard to maintain a healthy diet at this time than ever. Keep a healthy diet of three meals every day that includes vegetables, fruits, protein, dairy and any vitamins or medications prescribed to you

How to stay sane during the pandemic

Being under quarantine and living a new routine life can cause a lot of stress to you and your loved ones, especially with the higher risk of older ones getting affected.

Here are a few tips to relieve stress and anxiety during this time:

• Take a break from the news: Continuously watching the news and reading about the pandemic updates can cause an immense amount of stress. It can affect you psychologically.
• Take care of yourself: Spare some time for relaxing and do stretches, deep breaths, or meditation. Focus on getting enough rest, a good diet, and exercising.
• Stay connected: Although you are in self-quarantine, with the help of technology you can always be in touch with your friends and family through video calls and social media. Its also better time ti build relations and spend some quality time with your loved ones.

Stay Safe. Stay Calm.

Follow the guidelines stated by the government to ensure the safety and health of yours and your loved ones. Avoid going out unnecessarily. If you have to go out, make sure you wear masks, gloves, and maintain social distance. Wash your hands often and avoid close contact with your families as well. If you feel the symptoms of having the virus,  quarantine yourself, and seek immediate medical attention.