Over the last few months, the impact of the Coronavirus (COVID-19)has taken its toll on many of us. We would therefore like to acknowledge the significant impact the coronavirus (Covid-19) is having on communities and individuals across the world, especially older people and those who are vulnerable.
Our thoughts go out to those who have been directly impacted by this crisis. Our concerns for the wellbeing of our members and their families, and of all others is paramount and we recognise that the indirect elements like self-isolation in response to Covid-19 will also have impacts on many advocacy activities.
The negative impact on people with dementia and our care partners and families has been significant. People with dementia are worried about contractng it, as out immune systems are often lower.
Care partners with a family member in a nursing home, many who are now not allowed to visit, or can only visit with strict entrance protocol, are rightlfully fearful of the potential for the person they love, to die alone, and that they will never see them again.
The necessary social distancing is something many people with dementia already live with on an almost daily basis, but it is definitely worse when the whole world has to do this.
Simple measures such as thorough handwashing, using hand sanitiser if in public places, as well as when you get back home, are sensible. If you do have to meet face to face, stay at least 1.5 metres apart, wash hands before & afterwards.
DAI sent an email to its members, and the full data base today, with various updates as well as notice of a couple of webinarsabout managing COVID-19 on later this week.
It may also be helpful to know that art galleries and other organisations around the world have started promoting virtual tours:
- 18 ways to leave home without actually leaving the couch, from virtual zoo exhibits to museum gallery tours
- Museum Views virtual tours
- 12 Famous Galleries offering virtual tours
- The National Portrait Gallery, Australia
- And for the children, or grandchildren, free online courses so they can keep learning while schools are closed
The World Health Organisation - COVID-19 - is providing updates for individuals and organisations almost dail; sign up for their updates, and read more about what you can do to protect yourself and your family here...
- What is a coronavirus? →
- How to protect yourself →
- Myth-busters →
- Travel advice →
- Questions & answers →
- See all COVID-19 videos →
- Training and e-learning →
Finally, you may want to watch this update from Professor Huali Wang, who is the Vice President Alzheimer’s China Association, and a member of the World Dementia Council. Professor Wang explains how China has addressed the specific challenges of people living with dementia during these unprecedented circumstances.