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Tribune News Network
Doha
The number of people infected with COVID-19 worldwide continues to rise and friends and family members need to support older adults in their lives, Dr. Hanadi al Hamad, Chairperson of Geriatrics and Long Term Care at Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) and National Health Strategy Lead for Healthy Aging, has said.
“People who are older or who have underlying medical conditions are at risk for the most severe consequences, should they contract COVID-19. The latest data from China indicates the great majority of reported cases there were in older people. It may seem extreme, but older adults, especially those who already have health challenges, are being urged to stay at home as much as possible,” said Dr. al Hamad.
“For those most at risk of severe infection, it’s important that we do all we can to reduce their risk of virus exposure. Simple things like frequent handwashing, crowd avoidance, limited public time, trying to keep a distance from others and staying at home when we’re sick can make a big difference in minimising our risk of becoming infected and infecting others– like the older adults in our life,” added Dr. al Hamad.
Dr. al Hamad said the term ‘social distancing’ is a new phrase that describes most of these behaviours and is typically the opposite of guidance given for older patients. She says the overall health benefits of social engagement for older adults are well documented but that these are extraordinary times.
“Numerous studies have found that remaining socially active as you age reduces the risk of dementia and various other health conditions. Geriatricians generally promote the benefits of social engagement and activities that prevent isolation, but these are unprecedented times. It is essential that we do everything possible to protect the health of our most vulnerable populations, and this can include staying away – especially if we are sick or have had contact with someone who is ill,” said Dr. Al Hamad.
“Numerous studies have found that remaining socially active as you age reduces the risk of dementia and various other health conditions. Geriatricians generally promote the benefits of social engagement and activities that prevent isolation, but these are unprecedented times. It is essential that we do everything possible to protect the health of our most vulnerable populations, and this can include staying away – especially if we are sick or have had contact with someone who is ill,” said Dr. al Hamad.
Dr. Al Hamad said while limiting the risk of infection with coronavirus among older adults is essential, it is also important not to isolate our elderly people. She said technology can help prevent isolation within society.
“If the older adult in your life isn’t already online, help them to learn a new technology. There are dozens of online options that can be used to talk to family and friends. If your loved one isn’t tech-savvy, make it part of your routine to check in a few times each day by phone. Social distancing does not mean social isolation, and even a potentially deadly virus should not force us to be alone. Now, more than ever, people need to find smart ways to stay connected,” said Dr. al Hamad.
She added that it is also necessary for families who have an older adult in their lives to plan ahead if their loved one is ill. She notes that families and caregivers need to know what medications their loved ones are taking and track their food and medical supplies. She said that it is also important for family members to control the symptoms and emergency warning signs of COVID-19.
“In adults, emergency warning signs may include fever, cough, difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, persistent pain or pressure in the chest, new confusion, and bluish lips or the face. Older adults may be less likely than younger people to have a fever when they have an infection, so if the older adult in your life has other symptoms of an infection or is feeling poor, it is better to get checked out,” she added.
Doha
The number of people infected with COVID-19 worldwide continues to rise and friends and family members need to support older adults in their lives, Dr. Hanadi al Hamad, Chairperson of Geriatrics and Long Term Care at Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) and National Health Strategy Lead for Healthy Aging, has said.
“People who are older or who have underlying medical conditions are at risk for the most severe consequences, should they contract COVID-19. The latest data from China indicates the great majority of reported cases there were in older people. It may seem extreme, but older adults, especially those who already have health challenges, are being urged to stay at home as much as possible,” said Dr. al Hamad.
“For those most at risk of severe infection, it’s important that we do all we can to reduce their risk of virus exposure. Simple things like frequent handwashing, crowd avoidance, limited public time, trying to keep a distance from others and staying at home when we’re sick can make a big difference in minimising our risk of becoming infected and infecting others– like the older adults in our life,” added Dr. al Hamad.
Dr. al Hamad said the term ‘social distancing’ is a new phrase that describes most of these behaviours and is typically the opposite of guidance given for older patients. She says the overall health benefits of social engagement for older adults are well documented but that these are extraordinary times.
“Numerous studies have found that remaining socially active as you age reduces the risk of dementia and various other health conditions. Geriatricians generally promote the benefits of social engagement and activities that prevent isolation, but these are unprecedented times. It is essential that we do everything possible to protect the health of our most vulnerable populations, and this can include staying away – especially if we are sick or have had contact with someone who is ill,” said Dr. Al Hamad.
“Numerous studies have found that remaining socially active as you age reduces the risk of dementia and various other health conditions. Geriatricians generally promote the benefits of social engagement and activities that prevent isolation, but these are unprecedented times. It is essential that we do everything possible to protect the health of our most vulnerable populations, and this can include staying away – especially if we are sick or have had contact with someone who is ill,” said Dr. al Hamad.
Dr. Al Hamad said while limiting the risk of infection with coronavirus among older adults is essential, it is also important not to isolate our elderly people. She said technology can help prevent isolation within society.
“If the older adult in your life isn’t already online, help them to learn a new technology. There are dozens of online options that can be used to talk to family and friends. If your loved one isn’t tech-savvy, make it part of your routine to check in a few times each day by phone. Social distancing does not mean social isolation, and even a potentially deadly virus should not force us to be alone. Now, more than ever, people need to find smart ways to stay connected,” said Dr. al Hamad.
She added that it is also necessary for families who have an older adult in their lives to plan ahead if their loved one is ill. She notes that families and caregivers need to know what medications their loved ones are taking and track their food and medical supplies. She said that it is also important for family members to control the symptoms and emergency warning signs of COVID-19.
“In adults, emergency warning signs may include fever, cough, difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, persistent pain or pressure in the chest, new confusion, and bluish lips or the face. Older adults may be less likely than younger people to have a fever when they have an infection, so if the older adult in your life has other symptoms of an infection or is feeling poor, it is better to get checked out,” she added.
