Coronavirus knows no age. The youngest person diagnosed with coronavirus disease or COVID-19 is a newborn in China. Here in the Philippines our youngest patient is a one-year-and-nine-month-old girl in Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro.
But while nobody is invulnerable, one age group has it worse than the others. Collected global and local data show that the elderly at higher risk for severe illness due to COVID-19.
As of March 30, the Department of Health reported a total of 1,546 positive cases, 78 deaths, and 42 recoveries. Previous data (March 19) showed 38 percent of total positive cases were senior citizens or 60 years old and up. In addition, fatality from COVID-19 has been concentrated among seniors, as 51 of the 68 deaths as of March 28 were 60 years old and above.
In hard-hit countries like Italy and China, most deaths recorded have been people over 70 years old.
Hence, older adults, as well as immunocompromised individuals, are encouraged to follow recommendations from experts to keep themselves protected against the virus. A brand of bladder leakage pad reminds seniors to:
Practice social distancing
Everyone, especially older adults are advised to avoid crowds, mass transit systems, and other non-essential social gatherings. As part of the distancing measure, it’s best to avoid sharing utensils or any means that may acquire another person’s saliva. Younger and healthier family members should be encouraged to practice distancing from mature household members as they may be asymptomatic carriers. Separate towels, bags, and anything that may carry viruses.
Avoid close contact with sick people
As much as possible, seniors must avoid hospitals except in emergency cases. If possible, call before visiting a healthcare facility.
According to St. Luke’s Medical Center’s oncologist Denky Dela Rosa, M.D., senior citizens who have the following conditions are at higher risk: asthma, emphysema, bronchitis, tuberculosis or any lung disease, diabetes, heart and kidney problems especially those undergoing dialysis, cirrhosis, hepatitis, or any liver problems, and autoimmune disease like lupus.
Those who are taking Prednisone, Dexamethasone, Decilone, or Medrol, and those diagnosed with any cancer at any stage are also most vulnerable and are strictly advised to self-quarantine.
Limit news consumption
While it’s good to stay informed at this time, seniors are advised to limit their news consumption. Research shows that chronic TV watchers and news followers have increased fear because everything they see starts to feel like occurring outside their door. When important news items have been seen or read, filter the rest.
Seniors are recommended to keep themselves away from negativity and misinformation, and instead use technology to connect with family and friends to minimize anxiety. Also a good alternative is to clear mind through prayers and meditation, light exercises, reading positive books and articles, or engaging in activities that stimulate cerebellum—the part of the brain that coordinates balance, posture, and movement.
Strengthen immune system
Those whose duties do not require them to be out are recommended to get ample sleep, exercise, and eat well to boost their immunity. Seniors should include immune system boosters such as citrus fruits, garlic, broccoli, spinach, turmeric, green tea, papaya, poultry, and shellfish, as well as zinc sources like beef, oyster, asparagus, and malunggay. Soak up the sun in the morning. Drink at least eight to 10 glasses of water per day.
Practice good hygiene
Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Should there be a need to go out, quickly take a shower as the virus can thrive for a few hours on clothes. Wear a face mask around people and pets. Refrain from handshaking and touching your face. Cough or sneeze into a disposable tissue and discard it immediately. Use a tissue or elbow to touch switches and elevator buttons. Sanitize phones, doorknobs, and other frequently touched items.
Avoid public toilets
Cleanliness in public toilets are often not guaranteed, thus seniors are advised against using them. Those who suffer from urinary incontinence (leaks urine by accident), which is common among older people, and have to go outside may opt to wear bladder leakage pads.
So Sure Bladder Leakage Pad offers 340mm pads designed for light flow and 450mm pads for moderate incontinence. They can be worn while outside or even while at home.
For instance, talk show host Cristy Fermin makes sure her sleep is undisturbed by using So Sure 450mm pads which absorb heavy amounts of urine and guide it through the inner layers of the pad. “What I like most about it is its ability to eliminate urine’s strong scent. I love waking up every day free from odor and irritation,” she shares.
Entertainment journalist Lolit Solis’ bladders tend to overreact, and sometimes, sneezing, laughing, or coughing result in light drips. She uses So Sure 340mm pads.