COVID-19 and Seniors
Information and Resources for Seniors during the Pandemic
Older adults face significant risk of developing severe illness due to COVID-19. We have put together information and a list of resources helpful for seniors and older adults. The pandemic appears to be far from over as seen in the recent resurgence in many parts of the world and in the US.
Please contact your doctor immediately if you feel sick with any of the symptoms associated with COVID-19.
According to the latest update by the CDC, data published by the National Center for Health Statistics on Jun 9th 2021 shows clear evidence that as one gets older, the risk for severe illness due to COVID-19 increases. Please click here to read more about this update on the CDC website.
COVID-19 and Older Adults
Reduce Risk of Getting Sick
- Stay home if possible.
- Wear a face mask in public settings.
- Wash your hands often, especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
- When outside, keep at least 6 feet away between yourself and others.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched services.
Watch for Symptoms
Symptoms, ranging from mild to severe illness, may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. Common symptoms include:*
- Fever or chills
- Cough
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Fatigue
- Muscle or body aches
- Headache
- New loss of taste or smell
- Sore throat
- Congestion or runny nose
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
* updated Feb 22, 2021; source: CDC
Coping with Stress
- Take breaks from news stories, including social media. Hearing about the pandemic repeatedly can be upsetting.
- Take care of your body - Meditate, Eat healthy, Exercise regularly.
- Make time to unwind. Try to do some other activities you enjoy.
- Connect with others. Talk with people you trust about your concerns and feelings.
More details can be found at the CDC website here.
COVID-19 Resources
Local Resources
Want to find local support group or meal delivery?
Access local resources at connect2affect
Enter basic information and what you are looking for (classes, support group, meals, food delivery) to get a list of local resources that can help you.
Financial
Check status of your stimulus payment?
Go to this IRS Website to see if you qualify.
You can find out the status of your stimulus payment at this IRS Website
Food and Nutrition
Looking for some help with meals?
Go to Meals on Wheels, enter your zip code to find local organizations that can help you.
The Feeding America network of 200 food banks and 60,000 food pantries and meal programs serve nationally. You can find your local food bank/s at Feeding America
Exercise and Fitness
Looking to stay physically fit?
Checkout National Institute on Aging's Go4Life
The site is nicely organized with many articles to help you find the right set of exercises.
Mental Health
Are you stressed?
Meditation has a long history in helping people reduce stress, increase calmness, cope with illness and enhance overall health and well-being.
The Center for Mindfulness at the University of California, San Diego School of Medicine, is offering free online Mindfulness and Compassion sessions that are live.
Click here to check out the schedule and how to participate.
Feeling lonely or socially isolated?
Get matched with a buddy at Quarantine Buddy
The site, recommended by NY Governor Cuomo, was started by Cornell students to help people connect during these tough times.
Leisure and Mind
Donate
Many organizations serving seniors need your help.
Among the many, here are a few suggestions. You can click on the name and it will take you to the donation page of their website.
