Older people are at a higher risk for COVID-19 infection complications because they are more likely to have weaker immune systems and chronic illnesses. In a report published by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the majority of COVID-19 deaths have been among seniors aged 65 and above.
The threat of the novel coronavirus is real and is not likely to go away soon. This is why it’s essential to continue educating seniors and their carers about the best tips and practices to keep them safe and healthy. In the sections below, we will share five health tips for seniors during this pandemic:
1. Stay physically active
Although citizens are strongly advised to stay home to prevent the spread of the virus, seniors need to continue their physical activities and keep moving every day. Even short indoor activities like gentle stretches, a quick morning walk (while practicing social distancing), or even a little dance party in the living room helps keep the bodies in good condition. Physical activities help lessen the risks of falls and fall-related injuries as well.
2. Have a balanced diet
Along with regular exercise, maintaining a healthy diet even when the world is on lockdown is very important. Limit the amount of junk food and sugars you stock in your cupboards as much as possible and bring home food items with the nutrients that the elderly people need.
Here are some good food items to grab on your next trip to the grocery store:
- Fish – Mainly tuna, mackerel, and salmon, which are good sources of Omega-3 fatty acids. These are known to prevent macular degeneration, which leads to poor vision.
- Dairy products – Milk, yogurt, and cheese for a regular supply of calcium are important in building and maintaining healthy bones.
- Fruits and vegetables – They are great sources of fiber, potassium, magnesium, and Vitamin C.
3. Exercise your brain
Remember that it is not only your physical bodies that need exercise. Especially now that the world seems to have stopped and the daily news is full of alarming news stories, taking care of your mental health is important as well.
The current restrictions may make many seniors feel lonely as they miss seeing their family and friends. This is essentially why it helps to stay connected with them via instant messages or even video calls. Additionally, listening to music, reading, playing board games, or starting a new hobby like gardening are all great ways to exercise the brain and give seniors something worthwhile to work on.
4. Take your medications as prescribed
Sticking to your medication routine and stocking on your meds in advance is also vital. You can ask someone, a family member or friend, to help you refill it once it’s almost finished. What’s important is that you stick to the prescription given to you by your doctor, or you might be putting yourself at risk of chronic disease treatment failure.
5. Use telemedicine if you aren’t feeling well
Reach out to your provider for regular check-ups and chronic care management. If you aren’t feeling well, utilize telemedicine to get in touch with your primary care physician immediately. Thanks to the technology that is widely available today, it is possible for you to be diagnosed and treated by doctors in the comfort of your home.
Conclusion
Staying strong and healthy is important, especially during this global health crisis that we are all facing. The odds may say that seniors are at a higher risk of contracting the virus and developing COVID-19 complications, but you can stay safe and healthy through exercise, the right diet, and staying in touch with your PCP.
Another important factor in staying healthy during COVID-19 is to work with healthcare providers you can trust.
At Garden State Medical Group, have the best primary care doctors in New Jersey that will cater to your health needs. Get in touch with us today to start a telemedicine call with our health experts!