On October 1, the world celebrates International Day of Older Persons. At that moment, people are reminded again of the importance of maintaining health in old age so that old age remains productive and healthy.
During a pandemic, the elderly are always reminded to be protected. Because, they mostly have comorbid diseases and a low immune system. When the corona virus enters, there is very little chance of recovery.
According to data from the Covid-19 Handling Acceleration Task Force, the highest age group who died was in the age group of more than 60 years (elderly), namely 44 percent. Meanwhile, the age group of 46-59 years is as much (40%), and at the age of 31-45 years is as much (11.6%).
Geriatric Consultant Internal Medicine Specialist Dr. Lazuardhi Dwipa, Sp.PD-KGer, explained that the elderly group is a group at risk of experiencing fatal effects if exposed to Covid-19, especially if they have a history of chronic disease.
Comprehensive efforts must be made so that the elderly are minimally exposed to corona. According to him, the way that can be done in the midst of this pandemic is to maintain health by diligently washing hands, using masks, and maintaining distance when doing activities outside the home.
“In addition, it is recommended that the elderly keep exercising even though the intensity is very light or as much as possible. Strive to stay at home, limit gathering outside the home, and ensure balanced dietary nutrition so that body immunity is maintained,” said Dr. Lazuardhi, in a written statement. accepted by Okezone, Monday (9/28/2020).
On the other hand, a specialist in the Geriatric Consultant of Pondok Indah Hospital – Bintaro Jaya Dr. dr. Purwita Wijaya Laksmi, Sp-PD-KGer, has other efforts that elderly people can do to stay safe from Covid-19. This method he calls HAPPY.
“So, HAPPINESS is maintaining body weight, managing a balanced diet, avoiding risk factors, so that it is still useful to develop hobbies, exercise regularly, increase faith and piety, and monitor your health periodically,” he said through a written statement.
In addition, Dr. Purwita also suggested that families who have elderly people ensure that they get enough attention. This is because family support is essential so that the elderly stay healthy in the midst of a pandemic.
“Attention from the surrounding environment, especially family, is needed by the elderly, especially in a pandemic situation like now. Family is an important source of love, motivation or encouragement, assistance and social interaction needed by the elderly,” he continued.
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Keeping elderly groups from contracting the corona virus is our common task. Therefore, there is nothing wrong with the industry to be involved in ensuring the health of the elderly in the midst of a pandemic.
“We continue to realize our commitment to public health, one of which is about the elderly. Every year you through KECC regularly commemorate International Elderly Day,” said Agnes Wiraraharja, Head of Kalbe Ethical Customer Care (KECC).
Agnes believes that by encouraging the elderly group, they will stay healthy and fit in carrying out activities amid the pandemic. In addition, the celebration of International Elderly Day which is held by Kalbe at home alone provides entertainment for the elderly.
“The celebration this time is in accordance with the risk considerations faced by the elderly during the pandemu, namely saturation. We are trying to create an event that allows the elderly to stay at home but still feel happy,” added Agnes.
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