How To Navigate Senior Life During The COVID-19 Vaccination Phase

Since its inception over 1 year ago, it’s been known that older adults are most susceptible to the effects of the COVID-19 virus. In fact, a study found that the coronavirus is 100 times more deadly to individuals over the age of 60, when compared to those under the age of 40.

But with the steady roll-out of COVID-19 vaccine and with many seniors having already received their vaccination shots, where exactly does that leave us? Better yet, when exactly will seniors be able to return to their normal activities?

Dealing With Senior Care During The Mixed Vaccination Phase

They’re vaccinated, but you’re not… or maybe you’re vaccinated, but they’re not? Regardless of whether you, your loved ones, or your friends are vaccinated, unfortunately, this doesn’t mean we’ll be able to return to our care-free days just yet.

Canadian medical health experts and organizations are advising that we continue to follow public health measures to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and save lives. 

So, while you may already be vaccinated (or awaiting your second dosage), it’s important to remember that by continuing to take all preventative measures to reduce the spread of the coronavirus, you’re not only protecting yourself, but you’re protecting others. 

Infectious disease specialist Dr. Sumon Chakrabarti noted that by getting the vaccine “you might be reducing the chance of getting sick, but you’re not reducing the chance of spreading it to somebody else.” For this reason, with regard to senior care, it’s important that you continue to wear your masks and follow COVID-19 health regulations. 

Nonetheless, Dr. Chakrabarti does believe things should return to normal as we near the end of 2021! So hang in there, we’re almost back to taking up our regular in-person social activities!

What To Do Until The Vaccination Phase is Over

While we patiently wait for the rest of the world to speed through the vaccination process, there are a number of things we can to do:

1) Continue Following Health Guidelines and Regulations

We’re all accustomed to personal protective equipment, but if you are choosing to indulge in an afternoon stroll or have to venture outside, here are a few reminders:

• Avoid busy hours where clusters of people may be to limit any sort of social interaction with individuals outside of your bubble.
• Be sure to wear all personal protective equipment, including a mask and gloves;
• Don’t forget hand sanitizer and to change your clothes once you return home!

While simple, but effective, these preventative measures will only help to put us one step closer to the end of the pandemic!

2) Stay Active!

While stay-at-home orders are still in effect for many places around the world, that doesn’t mean you’re forced to sit around all day and sulk in your boredom. In fact, boredom shouldn’t even be a thing, as there are still a myriad of fun and safe activities for you to take part in!

Whether it be a socially distanced stroll around the neighbourhood, or nurturing a new backyard garden, there are still a number of entertaining activities to enjoy. Check out this list of our top spring activities for seniors to get started!

Together, we’ll be back to our regular outdoor activities in no time! For more senior care tips and advice, be sure to check out our other articles.