COVID-19 and the Elderly (high risk)
COVID-19 and the Elderly (high risk)
If you are at higher risk for serious illness from COVID-19 because of your age or because you have a serious long-term health problem, it is extra important for you to take actions to reduce your risk of getting sick with the disease.
• Stock up on supplies.
• Take everyday precautions to keep space between yourself and others.
• When you go out in public, keep away from others who are sick, limit close contact and wash your hands often.
• Avoid crowds as much as possible.
• Avoid cruise travel and non-essential air travel.
• During a COVID-19 outbreak in your community, stay home as much as possible to further reduce your risk of being exposed.
Have supplies on hand
• Contact your healthcare provider to ask about obtaining extra necessary medications to have on hand in case there is an outbreak of COVID-19 in your community and you need to stay home for a prolonged period of time.
• If you cannot get extra medications, consider using mail-order for medications.
• Be sure you have over-the-counter medicines and medical supplies (tissues, etc.) to treat fever and other symptoms. Most people will be able to recover from COVID-19 at home.
• Have enough household items and groceries on hand so that you will be prepared to stay at home for a period of time.
Watch for symptoms and emergency 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.
• If you develop emergency warning signs for COVID-19 get medical attention immediately. In adults, emergency warning signs*:
o Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
o Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
o New confusion or inability to arouse
o Bluish lips or face
*This list is not all inclusive. Please consult your medical provider for any other symptoms that are severe or concerning.
What to do if you get sick…
• Stay home and call your doctor.
• Call your healthcare provider and let them know about your symptoms. Tell them that you have or may have COVID-19. This will help them take care of you and keep other people from getting infected or exposed.
• If you are not sick enough to be hospitalized, you can recover at home. Stay in contact with your physician and follow their recommendations.
• Know when to get emergency help.
• Get medical attention immediately if you have any of the emergency warning signs listed above.
The above information was taken from www.cdc.gov
While we at Diversified Resources do not want you to be afraid, we do want you to be diligent.
Wash your hands with running water and soap while singing the Happy Birthday song. – Avoid going out in crowds. – Avoid others that are sick. – If you have a wellness or follow up visit with your physician, consider canceling or rescheduling – Have extra supplies on hand. – Please notify your case manager with any issues that may arise during this crisis.