A New Study Shows That Native American Seniors Are Highly Susceptible to COVID-19 by Kylee Carter

Elder Native Americans are especially vulnerable to COVID-19, according to a new study by the Arizona Department of Health Services. While most people know that Coronavirus is potentially dangerous for those aged 65 or older, Arizona's latest statistics show that 16 percent of people who lost their lives due to the pandemic in Arizona were Native American, and the vast majority of those 16 percent were seniors. With this new Arizona data in mind, it's important for Native Americans from all over the nation to look at the trend and do what that they can to protect vulnerable elders. Here are some practical and loving ways to care for elders during these uncertain times.

Help seniors to stay connected

Many people are feeling a sense of isolation and loneliness right now, even when they're not necessarily quarantining all alone. The pandemic is bringing out fear, anxiety, and sadness in a lot of people, according to Psychology Today. For seniors, fears may be heightened, because elders know that the Coronavirus is dangerous for their age group. One of the best ways to care for an elder during the pandemic is to help that person stay connected.

Elderly people should never feel cut off from others. If they are living in an assisted care facility or nursing home, you may want to skip the in-person visits for safety reasons. Find other ways to connect, such as snail mail letters, phone calls, and Skype video chats. If a senior is aging in place, contact the elder frequently to see how he or she is doing. If a senior doesn't have the right technology to connect easily while in quarantine, provide that hardware if you can, from smartphones to computers to stationery and stamps for old-fashioned letters. A senior may also need help mastering new or existing technology, due to mobility or cognitive challenges, or just due to lack of experience with modern electronic toys. 

If you visit in person to help, make sure that your hands are sanitized and strongly consider wearing a face covering. It is all-important to protect seniors from germs right now. If you are living with a senior, be compassionate. An elder may find the pandemic even more stressful than you do. Listen, be kind, and wash your hands frequently. Focusing on cheering up an elder may cheer you up, too.

Drop off supplies that promote good health

Elders share wisdom and traditions that enrich our lives. During this difficult time, they deserve extra care, protection, and respect. One way to show you care is to drop off supplies to a senior. Seniors may be reluctant to go shopping because they are frightened of getting sick. This is very understandable. By delivering what a senior needs to stay healthy and feel comfortable, you'll make a big difference. Some seniors need supplements that help with specific health issues. Vitamin D to decrease heart disease risk and calcium for stronger bones are two great examples, so dropping off fresh supplements that suit a senior's health requirements will be very caring. Fresh veggies, lean protein, fresh fruit, and multi-grain bread will also support a senior's good health. What you buy should suit a senior's tastes and dietary requirements. Some caring people are cooking for seniors and dropping off the pre-made meals, which may be an option for you.

Help a senior to get great medical care

Seniors who need medical care or advice may be reluctant to visit clinics and local hospitals since these environments may put them at higher risk. At the same time, seniors often have health conditions that require treatments or regular checkups. If a senior has a smartphone, computer, or tablet, as well as an Internet connection, he or she should be able to talk to a doctor via video-based telemedicine services. Some elders are not familiar with these ultra-modern and very convenient health care services. You may help your senior to access health care from the comfort and safety of home.

All over the world, people are worried about the seniors they love. It's a time when elders from all walks of life need more attention. The tips shared today will help you to keep a senior safe and healthy until the pandemic eases. 

*Cover photo by Santa Fe Reporter