The COVID-19 pandemic is causing untold fear and suffering for older people across the world. Less visible but no less worrisome are the broader effects – health care denied for conditions unrelated to COVID-19; neglect and abuse; an increase in poverty and unemployment; the dramatic impact on well-being and mental health; and the trauma of stigma and discrimination.  

Although all age groups are at risk of contracting COVID-19, older persons are at a significantly higher risk of mortality and severe disability following infection. An estimated 66% of people aged 70 and over have at least one underlying condition, placing them at increased risk of severe impact from COVID-19. Those over 80 years old are dying at five times the rate of the general population.

Some older adults face additional vulnerabilities at this time. The spread of COVID-19 in care homes and institutions results in homes being closed to visitors, resulting in social isolation and isolation and, in some instances, mistreatment. In many situations, mental well-being is increasingly at risk. 

The virus is also threatening social networks, the safety of carers, access to health services, jobs and pensions. It is critical that we understand the impact of the virus on older adults around the world and identify ways to preserve their rights, dignity, health and well-being at this time.

Heritage Foundation, India and the Global Ageing Network are sponsoring this webinar series to: 

Objectives

1. Understand the role and challenges of care providers in preventing illness and death
2. Understand the successful practices in institutional and home-based care
3. Identify measures to cope with the lingering impact of COVID on individual lives and communities

Proposed Dates: Dates: July: 7th & 21st, August 4th & 18th & September 1st & 15th