Pathways Issue 4: COVID-19 and Seniors' Health | Page 13

Dr. Roger Wong, clinical professor at UBC and geriatrics
consultant doctor at Vancouver General Hospital,
answers questions about the changes older adults are
facing in their daily lives, and ways to stay safe and
connected at a distance during the COVID-19 outbreak.
Should I cancel my medical
appointments?
Seniors should check with their health-care
provider to determine if their appointment can be
rescheduled or done virtually via technology.
Can I pick up my medications?
If seniors need to pick up medications, they should
call their pharmacy first before going in. The Canadian
Pharmacists Association also recommends individuals
only get the medications they need. If possible, have
a healthy family member pick up your medication and
drop it off at your door, or order your medication from
a pharmacy that offers delivery.
How can I stay connected with my
family and friends while practising
physical distancing?
Remember, physical distancing (that is, keeping a
physical distance of two metres between people) does
not mean social isolation. Use technology, whether it
is a phone call, Skype or FaceTime, to stay in touch and
interact with your family and friends. It is so important
to stay engaged because social isolation and loneliness
can have negative impacts on seniors’ health too.
Should I be going to the
grocery store?
Consider ordering your groceries online, or pick them
up once weekly and at off-peak hours. Some grocery
stores are offering seniors-only hours.
Should I babysit my grandchildren?
WATCH Dr. Wong answers
questions on
CTV News.
WATCH Dr. Wong explains what
social distancing means
for seniors.
Seniors play an important role supporting families,
however at this time, the health and safety of
everyone is most important. Seniors should consider
limiting their time babysitting during the outbreak
because children may not have symptoms and could
still spread the disease.