Coronavirus has become a global threat, as the respiratory illness spreads around the world at rapid speed. While it can affect anyone, it has a particularly nasty impact on elderly people, which is why they could be advised to stay indoors to avoid contracting the potentially fatal condition.
Currently, 116,345 cases of coronavirus have been reported globally, with 4,091 having died from the flu-like condition. This death rate of six per cent is relatively low; however, the majority of those who have failed to fight the virus have been elderly.
Indeed, the six people who have died from COVID-19 in the UK have all been over the age of 60 with underlying health conditions.
As a result, the government is urging old people to take precautions and stay at home to avoid being in contact with anyone who might have the illness.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson spoke at a press conference earlier this week, saying steps will be taken in the “days and weeks ahead” to make sure those who are elderly or vulnerable isolate themselves.
This is particularly as it is believed the virus can lie dormant for several days before symptoms show, which means those most at risk could come into contact with someone who has the condition but is not presenting with a temperature, cough or cold yet.
Mr Johnson explained delaying the peak of the spread to the summer would be beneficial, as the NHS would be able to manage it better without being under strain from other winter illnesses.
However, it was not explained how the elderly would be assisted when self-isolating. Author Marion Shoard wrote in the Guardian recently that a “systematic effort” will be required to help the aged, “particularly during the weeks the contagion is forecast to peak when NHS staff will be so stretched”.
She suggested volunteers could draw up registers of isolated people who may not be able to get the deliveries they require and get their shopping for them or arrange for supermarket deliveries for those who do not have access to computers.
Those with the illness already could also provide care and assistance to elderly people with the virus.
While it is important to keep old people safe, isolating them could also be detrimental to their overall health.
Age UK advises friends and family to make sure they stay in touch over the phone, as opposed to having physical contact.
Caroline Abrahams, charity director at Age UK, said: “The coronavirus outbreak is obviously a huge worry and looks likely to be challenging for our older population, so it is more important that ever to be vigilant and look out for older friends, neighbours and relatives to make sure they’re okay.”
In addition to this, a group of 20 therapists in Oxford have set up a free online clinic called the Help Hub. This provides ten-minute therapy sessions via Skype, FaceTime or phone for vulnerable or older people in need of emotional and practical support.
Being at home alone can be very difficult for old people, particularly if they feel isolated and do not have access to the essentials they need to stay well.
This is why care homes in Worthing that offer support and assistance to the elderly could be the ideal option, providing both the care and company they need.