CDC Advises Elderly to 'Stock Up' Amid Virus Crisis

With older Americans and those with underlying health conditions – hypertension in particular – the Center for Disease Control and Prevention is advising them to "stock up" for potential quarantine amid the coronavirus outbreak.

The CDC tweeted Monday:

"Older adults and people of all ages with severe chronic medical conditions are more likely to develop serious outcomes, including death, if infected with #COVID19. See CDC guidance for people who are at higher risk for serious illness: https://bit.ly/38ofRQc."

The CDC website lists the following guidelines for older adults and those that care for them:

Community Support for Older Adults

• Community preparedness planning for COVID-19 should include older adults and people with disabilities, and the organizations that support them in their communities, to ensure their needs are taken into consideration.

  • Many of these individuals live in the community, and many depend on services and supports provided in their homes or in the community to maintain their health and independence.

• Long-term care facilities should be vigilant to prevent the introduction and spread of COVID-19. Information for long-term care facilities can be found here.

Family and Caregiver Support

• Know what medications your loved one is taking and see if you can help them have extra on hand.

• Monitor food and other medical supplies (oxygen, incontinence, dialysis, wound care) needed and create a back-up plan.

• Stock up on non-perishable food items to have on hand in your home to minimize trips to stores.

• If you care for a loved one living in a care facility, monitor the situation, ask about the health of the other residents frequently and know the protocol if there is an outbreak.

• High Blood Pressure Patients at Greater Risk of Virus Death  
• What Should You Put in Your Coronavirus Prep Box?