C19 UPDATE: Coronavirus and Seniors as the Economy Slowly Reopens

Coronavirus and Seniors Many communities are easing social-distancing restrictions originally put in place to fight the spread of coronavirus. Even as stay-at-home orders expire, it’s especially important for people at higher risk to remain vigilant.

High-risk groups include:

• People who are 65 or older
• People of any age who
  • Live in a nursing home or long-term care facility
  • Have chronic lung disease or moderate-to-severe asthma
  • Have serious heart conditions
  • Are severely obese (body mass index >40)
  • Have diabetes
  • Are undergoing dialysis for chronic kidney disease
  • Have liver disease
  • Are otherwise immunocompromised

In addition to reducing exposure, one of the best ways to keep yourself and at-risk loved ones safer is recognizing the symptoms of COVID-19 and getting appropriate medical help.

COVID-19 symptoms include fever, cough, and shortness of breath.

Emergency warning signs for COVID-19 requiring immediate medical attention include:

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
• New confusion or inability to arouse
• Bluish lips or face

Kaiser Health News also warns that doctors also are reporting instances of unusual symptoms of coronavirus and seniors “who present without the typical cough, fever and shortness of breath. Instead, these elders may simply appear off; sleeping more, losing appetite and becoming confused and apathetic. Sometimes they are dizzy, stop speaking or simply collapse.”

Recognizing possible early symptoms of COVID-19 can help seniors get needed help quickly and prevent further spread of the virus.

Resources: Kaiser Health News, Seniors with Covid-19 show unusual symptoms, doctors say, April 23, 2020; Administration for Community Living, What do Older Adults and People with Disabilities Need to Know?