More on Covid-19

NEW DELHI: Listing a series of do’s and dont’s, the central government and the geriatrics department of AIIMS have sent out an advisory to all states for protection of senior citizens against Covid-19.The advisory is meant for those of 60 years and above, who are mobile and who are dependent on caregivers. There is a separate section dedicated to the do's and don'ts to ensure mental well being of the elderly. It is explained that people above 60 years face an increased risk, hence the need to take precautions.It says the elderly with medical conditions like chronic respiratory disease such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, chronic heart, liver or kidney disease, diabetes and hypertension need to be extra cautious about taking precautions.For elderly who are mobile it is recommended to stay at home all the time. If living alone they may consider depending on healthy neighbours for acquiring essential items for home. It is encouraged to talk to family members staying away and to relatives and friends. It is emphasised that the elderly should refrain from inviting anyone over and hugging and shaking hands to prevent infection. Due to summer it is recommended that the senior citizens consume adequate water to prevent dehydration.For mental well being elderly are advised to engage in activities and revive old hobbies within the home and not to take any intoxicants to avoid loneliness or boredom. In case of elderly with existing mental health concerns, they have been asked to reach out to helpline number 08046110007. It is also advised that any sign of change in mental health status like excessive drowsiness during the day, speaking incoherently or onset of inability to recognise relatives must be addressed by reaching for help on the helpline. The adivsory calls upon caregivers tending to dependent elderly to frequently clean surfaces like walking cane, walker, wheel-chair, bedpan etc. It is advised not to touch the elderly without washing hands.Sharing the advisory, Union social justice secretary R Subrahmanyam has written to all chief secretaries of states asking them to publicise it widely in all districts, institutions working for senior citizens and through NGOs working for the elderly.Based on Census 2011 age - cohort data, it is projected that there would be approximately 16 crore citizens above 60 years in the country. The age wise break-up puts the number of senior citizens between 60-69 at 8.8 crore followed by 6.4 crore who are between 70-79 years old. There are 2.8 crore elderly in the assisted elders category who are either above 80 years of age or require medical assistance. There are around 18 lakh indigent elders (destitute who are homeless or deserted by the families).