Have Aged Parents? Learn how to save them from Corona

India is constantly intensifying its efforts to combat the corona virus, but citizens, especially the senior citizens are required to adopt measures to protect themselves against the virus. Basic hygiene rules should be followed to prevent the spread of infection in elderly aged people. It is best to make them wash their hands regularly for 20 seconds, as well as follow the social distancing protocol. But in such a situation it is also important to keep the surrounding environment clean. Maintaining the health of the elderly is a challenge in this havoc of the corona virus. Dr. Ajay Mohan of AIIMS says that the elderly, especially those above 60 years of age and those who suffer from serious diseases like heart, lung or kidney disease, diabetes, COPD and high blood pressure, are at serious risk of being infected with the corona virus. Even if someone is living indoors, it is imperative to ensure the safety and care of these age groups, as their immunity tends to be weak.

Care should also be taken by the caregiver of the elderly to prevent the risk of infection in the elderly. It is simply because if precautionary measures are not adopted, then next time the elderly will also become infected. So, while taking care of the elderly one should wash hands repeatedly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, before preparing food, washing clothes as well after using the bathroom. If you have stepped outside the house, make sure to wash your hands and take a bath after coming back home to keep the infection away effectively. Keep a sanitizer in hand and use it at regular intervals.

If possible, change the bed sheet and pillow once every three-four days. Wash the sheet and pillow in warm water and keep it separate from the rest of the family bed.

These small things are of great use

• Keep the elderly room well ventilated, and allow cross ventilation.

• Keep food and breakfast out of the bedroom, as pieces of food items attract bacteria.

• Be sure to clean and disinfect medical devices along with commonly touching surfaces.

It is necessary to change the clothes of the elderly daily. Every time they change clothes, make sure that it is freshly washed. Thoroughly wash their clothes in the washing machine with detergent. If not possible in a washing machine, wash clothes with warm water which will help in killing germs. Before wearing them, make sure that the clothes have dried completely. Do not mix your clothes with the clothes of the elderly while washing.

When cleaning the bathroom and toilet, use a disinfectant in the bathroom before and after bathing. Make sure that tubs, mugs, sinks, shower handles, taps, etc. are all cleaned with hot water.