(Snippets from the frontline)
COVID-19/BLM: Keeping older adults at home
Statistically, older adults have a higher chance of dying from COVID-19. Out of fear, most seniors remain home in isolation. With recent lifting of some restrictions, and seeing many on TV ignore using masks, the older generation will not return to public life and be forced to avoid group interaction.
Prior to the pandemic, many elder seniors were already living in isolation with resultant depression and loneliness.
Please be aware of older neighbors in your community. A friendly hello or acknowledgment goes a long way. Plus, assisting them with shopping or errands can be helpful, and even a phone call once in a while will enliven their day.
Our senior center makes contact-phone calls, and are setting up creative ideas through technology arranging “table talk” conversations with friends. Check with your local senior center to see if you can help.
Older adults are now subject to different rules for sheer protection. Whether they be a relative or not (and remember, we are all related), open your heart and provide a caring voice to raise their spirit out of isolation.
Needless to say, wear a mask.
Gene Uzawa Dorio, M.D.
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