CORONAVIRUS: 5 Ways Community Members Can Help Older Adults

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.

As of today, Florida is reporting 149 cases, with four deaths related to coronavirus, according to the Florida Department of Health. In the United States, there are 1,678 coronavirus reported cases, with 41 deaths, according to the World Health Organization.

Community preparedness planning for coronavirus should include plans for older adults, people with disabilities and the organizations that support them in their communities. Many older adults in our communities depend on services and support provided in their homes to maintain their health and independence and are being impacted by closures due to coronavirus.

Advocate Health Advisors, a Southwest Florida-based health and well-being advisory company, has compiled advice on how family members and caregivers can support older adults:

1. Know what medications your loved one is taking and see if you can help them ensure they have extra on hand.
2. Monitor food and other medical supplies (oxygen, incontinence, dialysis, wound care) needed and create a back-up plan.
3. Ensure they have stocked up on non-perishable food to have in their home to minimize trips to stores.
4. Consider ways of getting food brought to their homes through family, social or food prep businesses.
5. If you care for a loved one living in a care facility, monitor the situation. Know the protocol if there is an outbreak.

Source: CDC
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.
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