Older people and the Coronavirus

The coronavirus, Covid-19, has now been confirmed as a pandemic by the World Health Organisation. This term has been used to describe a disease that is spreading in multiple countries around the world at the same time.

Currently, Public Health England is advising care providers to work with local authorities and community health service providers such as Action for Elders to establish plans for mutual aid. We believe it’s important for older adults both in care homes or the external community to protect themselves from possible infection by taking care of their health and personal hygiene.

It is our aim to support older people and help them maintain resilience throughout later life. To this end, during this time of continuous transition; we are repositioning the organisation to focus on looking after our beneficiaries both within care homes and in their own homes. We believe this action will strengthen communities by tackling the negative aspects of social isolation and loneliness that this pandemic brings.

We will continue to support older people if they have to self-isolate by keeping in contact with them on a local community basis and also via phone, email or social media.

Within our organisation, we have a member of the Department of Health Pandemic Team from the last major disease outbreak (Swine Flu) in the UK. His expertise in social care policy and practice responses are key to our current strategy. Our actions are therefore drawn up in consultation with him and the current guidelines issued by HM Government. Please note as the situation is a ‘fluid’ one these guidelines are subject to change at any time.

Our social media channels will be used to combat social isolation and loneliness. On our YouTube channel, we will post various Balanced Lives videos for beneficiaries to be able to continue to improve their health and well-being.

To keep you up to date on the latest NHS news, please follow this link: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/

Our Balanced Lives programmes can help keep you fit and well by building up your immune system – find out if we have a programme in your area or see our YouTube channel.

Here are 8 simple steps to keep you safe and healthy

1. Wash hands frequently for at least 20 seconds preferably with soap and water. If this is unavailable, a sanitiser containing at least 60% alcohol is the next alternative
2. Please cover any cough or sneeze with a tissue
3. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands
4. Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces
5. If you feel unwell, inform us and stay at home
6. Wearing a face mask will not normally provide you with any protection from a respiratory disease
7. Light exercise can build up your immune system and help you fight infection
8. If you are worried about symptoms dial NHS 111. DO NOT go and visit your GP or other health care provider.

Common Misconceptions

The symptoms of Coronavirus (Covid-19) are very similar to the common cold or flu. Many people assume they have Coronavirus if they find themselves suffering from a cough, high temperature or breathing problems. It most instances, this simply isn’t the case.

If you have been in contact with those travelling from abroad, you can see further information on Coronavirus cases and any risks associated with the virus. https://www.gov.uk/guidance/coronavirus-covid-19-information-for-the-public