By Ribha Sood, Guest Journalist
Chandigarh, June 9, 2020 : Ever since the outbreak of the novel coronavirus, there have been various researches which reveal that older people are the most vulnerable to severe illnesses. Several organizations, including the World Health Organization (WHO), have confirmed that the elderly (adults above 60 years) and those suffering from underlying health conditions such as heart disease, kidney disease, hypertension or diabetes are more prone to the pandemic.
As per the 2011-Census age-cohort data, India has around 16 crore senior citizens (60 years and above), which includes 8.8 persons falling in the 60-69 years of age group and 6.4 crore people in the 70-79 years of age bracket.
However, it’s the assisted elders (above 80 years or people who require medical assistance) and indigent elders (destitute who are homeless or deserted by families) who have a higher risk of infections among the senior citizens’ category.
With the virus reaching the fourth stage of transmission, it’s important to protect aged people from the deadly virus without compromising one’s own well being. In this regard, the Government of India has released an advisory to be followed by senior citizens and their caregivers during the pandemic. It explains various medical conditions causing greater risks and mentions do’s and don’ts for senior citizens who are mobile.
The advisory also gives direction to caregivers in times of crisis besides focusing on the mental well-being of the elderly.
Note: To read the complete advisory, open the PDF LINK, Click here