People over 60 are particularly vulnerable to the life-threatening virus. This is the time where the movement of the elderly is restricted. In such cases, the elderly can complain of aches and pain. Also, the secluded feeling and less interaction with society lead to lower self-esteem and mood swings.
Tips To Survive The Joint & Back Pains
In these hard times when we all are restricted to our homes, having regular exercise has been the most prescribed medicine for the elderly to maintain a healthy well-being. Most elderly are also worried about fall-related injuries while exercising and thus keep away from physical activity.
- Brisk walking
- Stretching
- Yoga
These are essential exercises to keep the muscles intact and in the correct position. These physical activities are the best-recommended form of exercise for overall well-being.
Dietary Tips
Since we all remain confined to our homes, with no or limited activity, the diet needs to be customized accordingly especially for the older generation. Most of us don’t experience the natural sunshine which might, in the long run, lead to a deficiency of Vitamin D in bones and also lead to depression. One should include a diet rich in;
- Vitamin D (eggs Yolks, mushrooms, and fortified milk)
- Vitamin C (cauliflower, broccoli, red and green peppers, cabbage, spinach, and turnip greens)
Mental Health Tips
- Keep regular routines and schedules as much as possible and maintain regular contact with loved ones.
- Avoid information that causes you distress or anxiety. Do not listen to misinformation or rumors.
- Older adults especially in isolation and those with dementia may become more stressed, anxious, agitated, angry, and withdrawn during the outbreak. Providing practical and emotional support is required.
Other Precautionary Tips
DO’s
- Exercise and meditate regularly
- Make sure to have proper nutrition through home-cooked meals, hydrate frequently, and take fresh juices to boost immunity.
- Keep yourself involved through reading or gardening.
DON’TS
- Don’t self-medicate.
- Don’t go near affected or sick people.
- Don’t go to crowded places like markets, parks, and religious places.
- Don’t go to the hospital for a routine check-up or follow-up. As far as possible make consultation virtually with your healthcare provider.
- Do not miss your daily prescribed medicines dosage
Additional Tips:
- As much as possible, try to be positive and appreciate the simple things in life. There are lots of people across the country who are helping their communities during this crisis. If this pandemic is over, it is hopeful that we will be kinder, stronger, and more connected with each other.
- Help others, neighbor checking, peer support, and childcare for medical personnel restricted in hospitals fighting against COVID-19 when safe to do so. Helping others gives us a sense of purpose and feelings of control during these uncertain times.
- If you have any prescriptions, make sure to have at least a one-month supply as well as over-the-counter medications. Take all your medications as directed by your health care providers. If you need assistance, you can call your healthcare team for instructions or information on where you can get your medications safe.