Right now we all need to take extra steps to stay healthy and limit the spread of the new coronavirus: washing hands often, avoiding close contact with others, wearing a cloth mask when you go out, covering coughs and sneezes, and cleaning frequently (more details here).
People who face high risk of getting severely ill need to be extra cautious. See if you fit the profile, and find targeted resources to help minimize risk and cope with today’s extraordinary circumstances.
Who is at high risk of serious illness?
How can you protect yourself if you’re at high risk?
The CDC outlines these steps:
Resources for older adults
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control has clear, easy-to-read information on how to protect yourself if you’re 65 or older. You’ll also find tips for coping with stress, symptoms to watch for and a self-checker tool. The CDC also explains why it’s a good idea to create a care plan in case you do get sick, and offers a sample you can download.
Southern Maine Agency on Aging (SMAA) has an extensive list of resources for navigating the new coronavirus on their website. Here’s a sampling of what you’ll find:
SMAA can also connect you with a resource specialist for more information. Call 207-396-6500 or send an email to referral@smaaa.org.
(SMAA serves Cumberland and York counties. Much of the information on their COVID-19 resource page is useful wherever you live. But if you need find to a resource center near you, go to Maine.gov and scroll down to the map.)
People Plus, is anonprofit serving Brunswick, Topsham, and Harpswell, with a focus on keeping older adults active, engaged, and connected to their greater communities. Though their Center and programs are temporarily closed, staff are updating the People Plus home page, where you can find the latest on the local Meals on Wheels and morning phone check-in program.
People Plus is also converting their exercise classes to videos you can access for free. Yoga, tai chi, Zumba – there’s more added every day, and look for a YouTube channel soon. Learn more here. The site also offers links to free cooking classes.
Resources for people with cancer
The American Cancer Society has a variety of resources for cancer patients, survivors, and others who are facing cancer in the midst of the coronavirus outbreak.
Resources for people with diabetes
Diabetes gets more complicated when you’re also dealing with a viral infection – and COVID-19 is no exception. The American Diabetes Association has information online at diabetes.org/coronavirus or you can call 800-342-2383. These pages are especially helpful:
Resources for people with heart disease
The American Heart Association website is a great resource for people who are navigating the outbreak with cardiovascular disease.
Resources for people with kidney disease
The American Kidney Fund has compiled COVID-19-related information on a special page on their website.
Resources for people with liver disease
Visit this special section of the American Liver Foundation website for update with targeted information about COVID-19 for liver patients and their families.
Resources for people with lung disease and chronic lung conditions
The American Lung Association website has a special COVID-19 section with a wealth of information.
If you have additional questions or questions about a condition not covered here, don’t hesitate to call your primary care team or health provider. They know your medical history best and are ready to help.