Older Adults and The New Normal

As the world opens up, it’s time to step out but with caution. Here’s a short guide. 

As we are into the second year of the pandemic, three waves of COVID-19 have risen and fallen. For the first time since the start of the pandemic in 2020, things have opened up. In India, we are better placed as far as covering most of the population with vaccination is concerned. However, it would still be in the best interests of older adults that they exercise caution.

As you prepare to step out and embrace the world again, here are the tips to be followed:

Understand the risks 

Remember that any activity one engages in outside might still come with the risk of getting COVID-19. Does that mean you still stay locked up inside the house? No. The key to staying safe is to understand your risk factors, the level of COVID-19 infection risk in your community and your comfort level.

Follow public health guidelines

Monitor public health guidelines in your area and follow all recommendations designed to keep community members safe. These recommendations may include wearing a face mask, practising social distancing, washing hands, avoiding crowds, and limiting the size of gatherings. The guidelines are fluid and might change with time.

Care for your mental health 

It is certainly reasonable for older adults and their family caregivers to experience some anxiety related to the world reopening and stepping out. In contrast, some older adults may have had trouble coping with prolonged isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic. Older adults should continue to embrace technology and stay connected with friends and family. If you feel anxious or depressed, contact your healthcare provider.

Continue to use delivery and virtual services

As much as possible, continue using delivery and virtual services for essentials such as groceries, prescriptions, medical visits and keeping in touch with friends while maintaining social distancing. Although you will still have to leave home from time to time, using these services can reduce the amount of exposure you have to others. Most medical practitioners now offer online consultations, as do several other service providers.

Establish safety rules at home

If you allow visitors into your home, consider asking them if they are vaccinated and allow them as per your comfort. It may make sense to limit the number of visitors to your home and continue to practice hand hygiene if you are worried about infection and exposure.

Stay healthy

Keeping oneself healthy is always the priority. Maintain a good lifestyle, consume a healthy diet and exercise. The pandemic is not over as of now. But we are better placed now than at the beginning of the pandemic. Prevention is better than cure. Most importantly concentrate on being healthy.