Among adults, the risk for severe illness from COVID-19 increases with age, and older adults appear to be at the highest risk. Severe illness includes the chance that an individual may require hospitalization, a ventilator to help them breathe, and intensive care. As new information comes out, research seems to be promising in terms of coping with this illness that has become a pandemic and affected so many across the world.
Best Practices to Combat COVID-19
Best practices to combat COVID-19 are still being encouraged, which include washing your hands often, covering sneezes or coughs, and sanitizing regularly used items frequently. Seniors can protect themselves, first and foremost, by avoiding exposure to the virus. Avoiding close contact with people who may have been exposed or who are sick is ideal for protection. If an individual chooses to continue going out in public during the COVID-19 pandemic, the individual must remember to keep a six-foot distance between themselves and others. (Keep in mind that many people can carry the virus without showing symptoms).
Building Up Your Immune System in the Fight Against COVID-19
All individuals should always be working to build up immune systems, but more especially right now during this pandemic. Getting an adequate amount of sleep is very beneficial for keeping immune systems strong. Additionally, consuming the proper vitamins and minerals needed to strengthen the immune system is helpful. Research shows that Vitamins C, D, B, Zinc, and Magnesium are essential in developing and maintaining healthy immune support. Fruits and vegetables contain these vitamins as well, for those individuals who prefer to eat their vitamins rather than taking supplements. Eating a variety of fruits and vegetables is the best way to ensure that you consume various vitamins and minerals for nutritional value.
Finding a New Normal During a Pandemic
This COVID-19 pandemic has been very difficult for so many. There still seems to be a mixture of opinions in terms of staying home and trying to find a “new normal.” Thanks to new research that is coming available daily, we are able to try and be “normal” while protecting ourselves. As we continue to learn more about COVID-19, I will continue to update as new information becomes available. Until then, we can do our best to slow the spread and follow the best practices listed in this article to keep ourselves and others healthy.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Chelsea Woods has a Master’s degree in special education and is an Educational Diagnostician. Her passion is children, particularly children with special needs. Chelsea has been married to her husband Dylan for 6 years, and they have two girls, Kamdyn, five, and Emersyn, one. She enjoys time with her church family, working in their garden, and taking vacations and making memories as a family.