6 Tips for Older Adults to Stay Safe from Coronavirus

The coronavirus can infect anyone, but older adults (60 and up) and those with underlying health conditions are at highest risk for serious complications and death.

The World Health Organization has declared that the world is facing a COVID-19 pandemic. Florida is reporting 34 cases of COVID-19, including 2 deaths, according to Florida Health. Experts cannot yet predict how many people will be ultimately affected in the U.S., but they are urging Americans to take steps to contain the outbreak.

Some tips are applicable to every generation - such as regular hand washing - but there are specific precautions older adults should take to protect their health.

Advocate Health Advisors, a Venice-based health and well-being advisory company, compiled 6 safety tips from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:

• Avoid crowds: Cancel all non-essential doctor's appointments, if it can wait, then it should. If you have an important appointment coming up, consider doing it in a video call or from your smartphone. Telehealth technology lets physicians consult with patients who may not be able to leave their homes.
• Avoid non-essential travel: Cancel non-essential plane travel and avoid public places where crowds may gather or poorly ventilated buildings where the risk of transmission is higher.
• Make a plan: Designate a family member or friend as an emergency contact whom you can call with concerns or requests for help. Keep in touch to update them on your condition and to curb boredom.
• Take everyday preventive actions: Do what you would do during flu season: Wash your hands frequently, and use hand sanitizer when soap and water aren't available. Continue to exercise and eat right, just as you would at any other time of the year.
• Stock up on supplies: Be sure you have enough groceries and toiletries. If possible, prepare meals and freeze them. Contact your healthcare provider to ask about obtaining extra medications to have on hand.
• Watch for symptoms and warning signs: Pay attention for potential COVID-19 symptoms including, fever, cough, and shortness of breath. If you feel like you are developing symptoms, call your doctor.

About Advocate Health Advisors
Advocate Health Advisors is a veteran-owned and veteran-operated health and well-being advisory company which provides the means for local agents to serve as trusted advisors within their communities. Advocate Health is committed to helping Americans make informed decisions as they become eligible for Medicare benefits or change existing Medicare coverage. Headquartered in Venice, Fla., Advocate Health Advisors is licensed in all 50 states and Puerto Rico. The company’s system of carefully chosen and vetted agents connects seniors to the best medical care available. These agents take a personalized, one-on-one approach to ensure that each client gets the best health care plan possible.
Video: Why CEO Darwin Hale launched Advocate Health Advisors