NEW DELHI: While India is continuously ramping up its efforts to combat COVID-19, it is a must for citizens to inculcate self-protection measures against the dreaded virus especially by older adults.
“One must adhere to basic hygiene practices to curb the spread of infection. While regular hand washing for up to 20 seconds, along with following social distancing protocols is ideal in such a situation, it is also important to keep the surroundings sanitized, especially if you’re living with an older adult,” says Dr Sandeep Patil, Chief Intensivist and Physician, Fortis Hospital, Kalyan.
Adding, “Older individuals are bound to ultimately experience several health issues. However, research suggests that an older adult and those with severe chronic medical conditions or comorbidities such as Heart, Lung or Kidney disease, Diabetes, COPD and Hypertension are at twofold risk to be seriously infected with COVID-19, if exposed to the virus. Even if one is staying indoors, it is imperative to ensure the safety and care of individuals in these age group, who usually have compromised immune systems.”
Here are a few essential and easy steps one can follow for sanitisation and hygiene purposes:
n Keep away from any risk: In order to prevent the risk of infection in an older adult, as a caregiver, your prime focus should include precautionary measures of self- protection; which includes frequent and thorough washing of hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is to be followed prior to food preparation, post handling of items, laundry as well as using the bathroom.
n If possible, change the bed sheets and pillow cases once every three-four days. Wash bed sheets and pillows in hot water, preferably separately from the rest of the family’s bedding.
n Keep the room well ventilated during the day for air circulation, and allow cross ventilation.
n Keep food and snacks out of bedrooms, as crumbs attract bacteria
n Ensure to clean and disinfect commonly touched surfaces- walker, canes, as well as medical equipment. (IANS)
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