Experts agree that “older adults” face the highest risk of infection and death relative to the coronavirus pandemic. But just who qualifies as “older?” According to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), “older” means anyone who is currently 65 years of age or older. In fact, 8 out of 10 COVID-19 associated deaths reported in the U.S. have been in adults 65 years old and older.
Older adults and people who have severe underlying medical conditions like heart or lung disease or diabetes seem to be at higher risk for developing more serious complications from COVID-19 illness.
In fact, among elderly adults with confirmed COVID-19 reported in the U.S.:
Estimated percent requiring hospitalization
- 31-70% of adults 85 years old and older
- 31-59% of adults 65-84 years old
- Estimated percent requiring admission to intensive care unit
- 6-29% of adults 85 years old and older
- 11-31% of adults 65-84 years old
- Estimated percent who died
- 10-27% of adults 85 years old and older
- 4-11% of adults 65-84 years old
If you are 65 years old, follow these steps to reduce your risk of falling ill:
- Stay home if at all possible.
- Shop only when absolutely necessary. And if you do shop, stock up on supplies to minimize the number of errands on your “to do” list. If possible, order food and medications to be delivered and left at your doorstep, so you will not have to make contact with the delivery person.
- Take advantage of special “senior only” hours to shop.
- Frequently wash your hands.
- Take precautions to maintain at least six feet of space between yourself and others.
- Wear a face mask. Although healthcare professionals initially advised against doing this, the latest information suggests wearing a handmade mask whenever you leave the house.
- Steer clear of anyone who is sick.
- Clean and disinfect surfaces.
- Avoid non-essential travel.
- Call your healthcare professional if you suspect you may have contracted COVID-19. Critical symptoms to watch for include fever, coughing, and shortness of breath.
Nursing Homes & COVID-19
One of the reasons elderly people face higher risks than their younger peers, is because coronavirus attacks the respiratory system, which is weaker in seniors than others. So, residents of long-term care facilities are more prone to succumb if they encounter the virus. As a result, nursing homes have seen a disproportionate number of cases. If you or a loved one lives in this type of environment, make sure staff follow these guidelines:
CDC Long-Term Care Guidelines
Nursing home personnel should assume COVID-19 could already be in their community and move to restrict all visitors and unnecessary HCP from the facility. The CDC also advises canceling group activities and communal dining; and implementing active screening of residents and healthcare personnel for fever and respiratory symptoms.
The American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) Tip:
“If you’re 65 and older and live where cases have been reported, take action to reduce your exposure. Know what’s going on locally. Pay attention to recommendations from your local public health department. Also, make sure you have adequate supplies of routine medications, like medicine for blood pressure and diabetes, and household supplies in case you need to remain at home.”
Estate Planning amid COVID-19
If you have not yet done so, now is the time to make strategic estate planning decisions. What’s more, make sure your elderly loved ones’ end-of-life planning is set. Out of an abundance of caution, we offer Zoom meetings for estate planning. Call today (925) 256-0298 to set up a consultation. And stay tuned for our next virtual workshop about estate planning.
About Walnut Creek Elder Law in Walnut Creek, California
Michael J. Young is an experienced elder law, estate planning and asset protection planning attorney in Walnut Creek, CA. Mr. Young advises his clients regarding their estate planning needs with an emphasis on asset protection, Medi-Cal qualification and preservation of assets for various levels of their care as they get older. His journey into elder law began when his mother suffered from an acute injury that required her to be in a skilled nursing facility. Call to schedule a consultation (925) 256-0298. Michael J. Young is also hosting virtual estate planning meetings, to review elder care options and ensure asset protection.