How to Take Care for Elderly Family Members During the Coronavirus Outbreak

1. Give seniors fresh water

Drinking water is vital for all age ranges. Seniors need water to stay hydrated and for maintaining a strong immune system, which is very important now in the midst of a global pandemic.
Sharagim Kemp, DO, wrote in an article for Give InKind that you can give seniors a measured water bottle, this way, you’ll know for sure how much they drink on a daily basis. It is recommended a minimum of 2 l of water per day, or more if possible.

2. Give them nutritious meals

“Many prepared foods are high in sodium, which can impact kidney and heart function,” says Kemp. She recommends giving seniors food rich in magnesium, protein and healthy fats, based on research.

If you’re not the best at cooking or simply don’t have the time for it, you can always choose specialized services like Magic Kitchen. They provide personalized meals for anyone’s dietary restrictions and needs, says Kemp.

“This pandemic has put the elderly, a group that was already isolated and vulnerable, at even greater risk for hunger,” says Beth Shapiro, executive director of Citymeals on Wheels. “The work of Citymeals, and other meals on wheels programs across the country, is crucial to ensure a lifeline for older people during these times. The demand for food among seniors is increasing with each passing week, so supporting local hunger organizations is essential.”

CityMeals on Wheels wanted to help seniors deal with COVID-19 pandemic so they’re serving 450,000 meals to 18,000 elderly New Yorkers.