Coronavirus and elder adults What to know and how to prepare
People aged 60 and over are at higher risk of the novel coronavirus disease.
Symptoms include dry cough, fever, difficulty breathing, and is mostly circulated by people.
Here's how mature adults can get ready and protect themselves from the coronavirus
This advice comes from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Drs. Carla Perissinotto and Samir Sinha, both geriatricians.
Note: Recommendations for COVID-19 may change as officials learn more, so monitor your local health department and the CDC for updates.
Take precautions
Cancel nonessential doctor's appointments Schedule telehealth sessions for appointments you can't miss Designate an emergency contact Wash your hands frequently (scrub for 20 seconds with soap and water) Use hand sanitizer when soap isn't available
Stock up
Make sure you have enough groceries and household products to last you a "prolonged period " at home Prescription medication may be challenging to get ahead of time, so consider mail ordering
Travel
Avoid nonessential plane travel Don't go on a cruise —— cruise ship passengers are at a higher risk of infection
Life
Remain at home as much as possible if you live in an area where there's an outbreak In public, avoid crowds and poorly ventilated buildings Keep several feet of distance from people Wash your hands with soap after going in public If you need to isolate, keep in touch with family and friends
Nursing homes
Most long-term care facilities have pandemic plans Call facility staff for information on their plan If you're sick, do not visit a nursing home If you're visiting a nursing home in an outbreak area, get screened before entering Figure out an alternative mode of communication if a nursing home bans visitors
If you think you're sick
Call your doctor before going in for a test Don't use public transportation and stay at home as much as possible Call a local coronavirus hotline for more information
Steve Simmonds for Worldwide Breaking News
Sources CNN
