Senior to Senior: Vulnerable Elderly

Who are these vulnerable elderly people we keep hearing about? Surely, they aren’t talking about us. I mean, we are still getting around, still have “stuff” to do and places to go. We still feel good, most of the time, still have hopes, plans and dreams, and we don’t have time to be sick…right? Vulnerable Elderly include: • Age 70 or older • Under 70 but with underlying health conditions (chronic respiratory diseases, chronic heart disease, chronic kidney failure, chronic liver disease, chronic neurological conditions, diabetes, arthritis, and the like). It’s an eye opener isn’t it? Underlying health conditions sneak up on you rather quickly, and before you know it, you are no long young. Not only that but your immune system is letting you down, and you are truly at risk for getting seriously ill. Vulnerable people are urged to take extra precautions as Covid19 cases continue to rise. • You can go outside but try to keep overall social interactions low • Limit shopping to places where you can easily keep 6 feet away from others • Wear a mask and wash your hands often • Sanitize your home You are lonesome and you are tired of self-isolating, but if you don’t want to die prematurely, you have to go the extra mile. Remember; this virus infects people of all ages, but “vulnerable elderly” individuals are more likely to become seriously/fatally ill than most. Can you trust your children to not bring the virus home? Young people are not always as conscientious as we are. Unless you plan on taking your chances, you will have to put your foot down (good teaching moments). • Let the world know that you aren’t ready to cash in your chips yet. • Set a good example • Set up a social distancing module in your house • Have a basket of masks in the foyer • Have hand sanitizers, soaps, and antiseptic wipes available to all • Get your flu shot; take good care of yourself • Keep your mind and your body active This is not a game. Like it or not; aging changes who you are, and you need to stay in control. Life is precious. Life is good at any age.