Early information from China, where COVID-19 first started, shows that some people are at higher risk of getting very sick from this illness. This includes:
- Older adults
- People who have serious chronic medical conditions like:
- Heart disease
- Diabetes
- Lung disease
If a COVID-19 outbreak happens in your community, it could last for a long time. (An outbreak is when many people suddenly get sick.) Depending on how severe the outbreak is, public health officials may recommend community actions to reduce people’s risk of being exposed to COVID-19. These actions can slow the spread and minimize the impact of the disease.
If you are at higher risk for serious illness from COVID-19 because of your age or serious long-term health problem, it is extra essential for you to take action to reduce your risk of getting sick with the disease.
If you are at higher risk of getting very sick from COVID-19, you should:
- 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 reduce your risk of exposure.
- Community preparedness planning for COVID-19 should include older adults and people with disabilities, and the organizations that support them in their communities, to ensure their needs are considered.
- Many of these individuals live in the community and depend on services and supports provided in their homes or in the community to maintain their health and independence.
- Long-term care facilities should be vigilant to prevent the introduction and spread of COVID-19. Contact The Living Center to find out more about precautions we are taking for your loved one.
Family and Caregiver Support
Know what medications your loved one is taking and see if you can help them have extra on hand.
Monitor food and other needed medical supplies (oxygen, incontinence, dialysis, wound care) and create a backup plan.
Stock up on non-perishable food items to have on hand in your home to minimize trips to stores.
If you care for a loved one living in a care facility, monitor the situation, ask about the health of the other residents frequently and know the protocol if there is an outbreak.
The Living Center cares about the well-being of your loved one. Contact us at (740) 397-3897 to learn more about what we are doing to take precautions.
