BridgeWater Is Helping Seniors Stay Healthy During COVID-19

During this unprecedented time, we’re learning more and more about how COVID-19 affects individuals, including older adults and the elderly, and how to keep seniors safe and healthy during COVID-19. The CDC states that “Among adults, the risk for severe illness from COVID-19 increases with age, with older adults at highest risk.” If there are preexisting conditions, the risk of severe illness increases, and it could require hospitalization or the use of a ventilator, or potentially result in death.

This is why it is so important to follow the guidelines in order to protect ourselves and our loved ones. As individuals age, the risks of getting sick increase in general. People in their 60s are more susceptible than people in their 50s. The same is true for people in their 70s compared to their 60s, between 80s and 70s, and so on. The risk continues to go up. Therefore, individuals in these age brackets and people who work with or in proximity to seniors need to be sure to follow all safety guidelines and protocols.

Staying Well and Healthy

In order to avoid contracting COVID-19, it’s imperative to take the CDC’s prevention guidelines seriously. These are some of the basics to help decrease your chances of getting sick:

• Wash hands regularly, with soap, for at least 20 seconds. This should take place both before and after interaction with residents, before all food preparation, after using the restroom, and after touching surfaces in public places.
• Avoid touching your face. Do not touch your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands. If you need to blow your nose, get a tissue that can be thrown away.
• All coughing and sneezing can be directed into a disposable tissue or into the crook of your elbow.
• Avoid crowds or places where people gather. The proximity for the spread of COVID-19 is about six feet, so physical distances need to be adhered to. Although fresh-air spaces are safer than enclosed buildings or places that recirculate air, some distance still needs to be maintained.
• Wear a mask. This cannot be overstated. Wearing a mask protects both you and others, especially those with weakened immune systems.
• Disinfect surfaces of the home that get used often, such as countertops and handles. For those with mobility equipment, such as canes or walkers, they, in addition to handrails, should be cleaned regularly.

Staying Active Socially While Practicing Physical Distancing

Although it may seem hard to cancel all group meetings, outings, activities, and have meals delivered to residents’ rooms, these practices help curb the spread of the disease from infecting residents. It can be hard enough to stay socially active as mobility declines, but with the help of technology, seniors can still stay in contact with family, friends, and loved ones.

The BridgeWater Assisted Living team strives to make sure that all residents are comfortable and safe, and we take practicing these healthy steps seriously. We aim to assist all residents and make sure that their needs are met and they remain happy and healthy and feel supported.