Safeguard older persons during COVID-19 and beyond: UN Chief Guterres

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, 15 June, was observed as virtual event with a message by UN Secretary-General António Guterres stating,

“ The COVID-19 pandemic is causing untold fear and suffering for older people across the world. Beyond its immediate health impact, the pandemic is putting older people at greater risk of poverty, discrimination and isolation. It is likely to have a particularly devastating impact on older people in developing countries.”

Excerpts:

-older persons are at a significantly higher risk of mortality and severe disease following infection, with those over 80 years old dying at five times the average rate

-Older persons may also face age discrimination in decisions on medical care, triage, and life-saving therapies.

-Some older people face additional vulnerabilities at this time. The virus is not just threatening the lives and safety of older persons, it is also threatening their social networks, their access to health services, their jobs and their pensions.

- The impact on health and long-term care services for older persons must recognize and confront the particular challenges they face, including their ability to access medical treatment and care.

-As the world grapples with an unparalleled health crisis, older persons have become one of its more visible victims.