Daily Local News (West Chester, PA)
Reopening from coronavirus does not mean all clear, senior advocacy group says
The reopening of America does not signal an all clear when it comes to COVID-19, according to the Association of Mature American Citizens.
“We already know what life is like in lockdown mode, but are we ready to face the COVID virus as the nation begins the journey back to a semblance of normality?” said Rebecca Weber, CEO of AMAC. “Bear in mind that precautions will still be required; this bug is not going gently into the night. It remains a clear and present danger and will be for quite some time to come.”
Weber cautions the elderly, in particular, to be aware of the potential for a “second wave” of infection. Medical researchers support the notion that the older you are the more susceptible you can be to this new, deadly strain of virus, especially if you have chronic infirmities. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that 80% of the deaths due to COVID-19 have been among the 65-plus population in the U.S.
Meanwhile, there are signs that easing restrictions that mitigate the spread of the disease may have consequences, Weber said.
“Several states that may have been too quick to ‘get back to normal’ have seen spikes in the numbers of new coronavirus cases,” she said. “So, it’s important that you don’t get overconfident as the nation reopens and that you continue to observe protective practices in your daily life.
“There may be no need to take draconian measures, but it would be wise to keep your face mask on when you leave your home and to wash your hands for at least 20 seconds when you come back, for example.”
The AMAC chief offers this menu of additional suggestions courtesy of the CDC:
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Stay home when you are sick, except to get medical care.
• Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue.
• Clean frequently touched surfaces and objects daily (e.g., tables, countertops, light switches, doorknobs and cabinet handles) using a regular household detergent and water.
• If surfaces are dirty, they should be cleaned using a detergent and water prior to disinfection. For disinfection, a list of products with Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)approved emerging viral pathogens claims, maintained by the American Chemistry Council Center for Biocide Chemistries (CBC), is available at https:// www.americanchemistry. com/Novel-CoronavirusFighting-Products-List.pdf. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for all cleaning and disinfection products.
Weber offers additional advice, particularly if you find yourself feeling anxious and afraid.
“You are not under house arrest, so don’t let yourself feel that all you can do is sit around the house watching TV,” she said. “Call your friends and family for chats and, by all means, get up and get out even if you have to wear a face mask.
“Take walks, and when you are at home keep busy with stimulating distractions such as crossword puzzles, jigsaw puzzles, a new book and household chores. When you get up in the morning make a plan for the day.
“The supermarkets are open for business, and many of them offer special senior shopping hours. And, yes, it’s okay to strike up a conversation with a fellow shopper — just as long as you don’t get too close.”
About the AMAC: The 2 million member Association of Mature American Citizens, www.amac.us, is a vibrant, vital senior advocacy organization that takes its marching orders from its members. AMAC Action is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization representing the membership in our nation’s capital and in local Congressional Districts throughout the country. And the AMAC Foundation (www.AmacFoundation.org) is the Association’s nonprofit organization, dedicated to supporting and educating America’s seniors.