InTouch with Southern Kentucky August 2020 | Page 29

Over the last few months of the
pandemic, when most people were
only venturing away from home
when absolutely necessary, it is
possible that typical physical and
mental functions may have declined
in some older adults due to
mismanagement of acute or chronic
illnesses, and/or the loss of access
to rehabilitative services or physical
activities. Reduced function and
mobility can be a precursor to
reductions in independence, quality
of life, the need for higher levels
of assisted living, and mortality.
As restrictions ease and health
services resume normal operations,
we recommend you and your loved
ones schedule a checkup with your
healthcare provider as soon as
possible, to ensure that any health
concerns can be identified and
managed appropriately.
Adults 65 years and older may
also need vaccines to prevent
diseases such as pneumonia,
shingles, influenza, tetanus,
diphtheria and pertussis. These
routine vaccinations prevent
illnesses that could lead to long
term health problems, including
hospitalization, that otherwise
could have been avoided. We
encourage you to contact your
doctor to ensure you’re up to date
on age appropriate immunizations
and screenings.
While we don’t know what the
future holds amidst coronavirus,
in general, we recommend that
older adults continue to follow CDC
health guidelines to protect against
the spread of infectious diseases:
• Do not discontinue current
medications without first consulting
your doctor or healthcare provider.
• Seek emergency care as you
normally would, especially for
suspected heart attack or stroke
symptoms.
• Practice physical distancing by
staying 6 feet apart (about 2 arm’s
length) from others both indoors
and out.
• Always wear a face covering, or
mask, and keep items such as hand
sanitizer and tissue close at hand.
• Avoid touching your face or
any other “high touch” surfaces or
items.
• Wash your hands frequently
with soap and water for at least 20
seconds.
• Make an in-person visit with
your healthcare provider should
you have any questions about your
health. Many facilities, including
those at Lake Cumberland, are
practicing the most effective
cleaning and disinfection protocols
available in healthcare today.
Virtual activities, events, and
gatherings present the lowest risk
of exposure to COVID-19, help keep
your mind sharp, and these may
also combat feelings of isolation.
Here are some suggestions for
activities that you can engage in
while social distancing:
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AUGUST 2020 In Touch with Southern Kentucky • 29