Experts Warn Of Pandemic 'double Whammy' For People With Dementia

2023 Author: Abraham Higgins | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-11-27 23:16

Experts warn of pandemic 'double whammy' for people with dementia

A group of Chinese scientists notes that this category of people is in the most vulnerable position in the face of the new coronavirus.

Photo: pixabay.com

An international team of experts led by Huali Wang of the Center for Dementia Treatment and Research at Peking University has warned of a pandemic “double whammy” for elderly patients with dementia. According to experts, these people are especially vulnerable now, because they not only fall into a risk group due to age, but also have problems remembering safety rules and the need to stay at home.

Experts note that older people in many countries live alone, with a spouse, or in a nursing home. Many companies that provide various services to seniors are now unable to work. As a result, dementia patients who need the services of home helpers find themselves alone and feeling abandoned.

In addition, many countries are now banning visits to nursing homes, which leaves the elderly suffering from social isolation and the staff under great stress. This also applies to Russia, where older people are encouraged to stay at home, and their relatives are often unable to visit them due to strict quarantine measures.

“Authorities need to focus on how to support these people and their families in difficult conditions at the health level,” said Peter Lloyd-Sherlock of the University of East Anglia, which studies the health and well-being of older people.

Earlier, the American Alzheimer's Association published detailed guidelines for relatives of dementia patients, nursing home staff and nurses. In particular, experts recommend that relatives buy the necessary medicines in advance and make signs in the rooms and in the bathroom reminding them to wash their hands for at least 20 seconds. Also, close people and staff should carefully monitor the health of a person with dementia. If he has increased confusion, this may be a symptom of COVID-19, in this case, you should immediately call a doctor.