With the holiday season upon us, it is important to keep in mind the risks of COVID-19 and the threat it has on our elderly population. To put in perspective the amount of risk it has on elderly people, a Wisconsin statistic estimates that about 77% of all those who have died from the virus are over the age of 70. With this in mind, Dr. Nathaniel Chin, UW Health geriatrician and Wisconsin ADRC investigator, gave recommendations in order to protect elderly loved ones during this season in the following UW Health video update:
Dr. Chin said some of the ways in which we can still connect with elderly loved ones includes sending postcards, delivering a meal, or having an outdoor visit. “Consider calling them, video chatting, sending them a postcard, or sending them a care package," suggested Chin. "Sometimes all we need to do is see them, so you can visit them through a window and simply call them on the phone so they can hear you."
With these alternative ways to visit with your loved ones, Dr. Chin provided more advice on ways to think about your own condition and the risk factors in seeing a family member. “What are your risk factors for developing severe symptoms, and weigh that as you consider seeing your family member this holiday season,” he said.
We all value time with our loved ones, but this year we need to be a bit more cautious with our decisions in seeing them throughout this season. In a final thought, Dr. Chin expressed how important it is during this time to monitor our mental health and those of others.
"UW Health Shares Recommendations for Elder Safety This Thanksgiving" was posted on November 23, 2020. WMTV NBC 15 covered this news in its story "UW Health offers advice on connecting with senior relatives ahead of Thanksgiving," and WKOW ABC 27 offered its audience the story "Recommendations to keep elderly family and friends safe this Thanksgiving."
Story by Mitchell Mocadlo
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