Older people with underlying issues more susceptible to die from virus
Yes, older adults with underlying health issues are more susceptible to severe illness and death from COVID-19. This is because older adults' bodies have a natural decline in immune function and other physiological changes that can make them more vulnerable to severe illness.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), people over 65 years old are at higher risk of severe illness and death from COVID-19 due to several factors:
- Weakened immune system: As people age, their immune system becomes less effective at fighting off infections. This can make it harder for their body to respond to the virus and recover from illness.
- Underlying health conditions: Older adults are more likely to have underlying health conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, lung disease, and kidney disease, which can increase their risk of severe illness and death from COVID-19.
- Chronic diseases: Older adults are more likely to have chronic diseases, such as hypertension, obesity, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which can increase their risk of severe illness and death from COVID-19.
- Malnutrition: Older adults may have a higher risk of malnutrition, which can weaken their immune system and increase their risk of severe illness and death from COVID-19.
- Social isolation: Older adults may be more likely to experience social isolation, which can increase their risk of depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues that can weaken their immune system and increase their risk of severe illness and death from COVID-19.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), older adults with underlying health conditions are at higher risk of severe illness and death from COVID-19. The CDC defines older adults as those 65 years and older, and underlying health conditions include:
- Chronic kidney disease
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Heart disease
- Diabetes
- Lung disease
- Neurological disorders
- Cancer
- HIV/AIDS
- Weakened immune system
It's essential for older adults to take precautions to reduce their risk of severe illness and death from COVID-19, such as:
- Staying at home as much as possible
- Avoiding close contact with others
- Wearing a mask when leaving home
- Practicing good hygiene, such as washing hands frequently
- Getting vaccinated against COVID-19
- Following public health guidelines and recommendations
Healthcare providers should also take extra precautions when caring for older adults with underlying health conditions, such as:
- Providing personalized care and treatment plans
- Monitoring their condition closely
- Providing emotional support and counseling
- Encouraging them to stay at home and avoid close contact with others
By taking these precautions, older adults with underlying health issues can reduce their risk of severe illness and death from COVID-19 and stay safe and healthy.