We at Answers for Elders welcome you to July, and want to also say thank you to everyone who is setting the example by wearing masks with the goal of keeping us all safe. Thank you for your consideration of others. Especially, we thank you for being mindful of those who are over the age of 65.
We are now approaching the fourth month of “staying at home” in one shape or form due to COVID-19, our seniors in senior living communities are still staying, mostly separated, in small apartments. Washington State’s curve is sadly, rising, and is now experiencing over 1000 new COVID cases per day- breaking all-time records from our previous testing.
Yes, tests are more available, and as such, it is reasonable to assume that we would have more cases, but overall, as science progresses, we are learning more and more about the disease and how it is spread.
Did you know?
Multiple studies have proven that close to 42% of those who have COVID are asymptomatic. They have no symptoms. Yet, just because they have symptoms doesn’t mean that they aren’t just as “deadly” to someone who may have compromised or more vulnerable health.
Personally, it’s beyond me why individuals are so against wearing a mask- to not only protect ourselves but mostly, to protect others. This is not about “protecting ones’ rights.” It is a public safety initiative that if we all would cooperate together, we could begin to heal as a state, community and throughout our neighborhoods.
What have we learned?
- COVID-19 is not a hoax. It is a potentially deadly disease that has claimed the lives of over 132,000 deaths in this country.
- By wearing masks, we can diminish our risk of contracting the disease by up to 90%
- COVID-19 is increasing in 37 out of 50 states in the USA- including Washington
- In the USA, our country has more than double the amount of individuals who have contracted the virus than the second largest death toll of Brazil
Politicizing this issue isn’t going to make COVID go away. The only thing it will do is drive a bigger wedge between us all. Yes, masks can be uncomfortable. They can cause you to feel like you are suffocating, or like you cannot breathe. I get it. It’s not the most comfortable thing to do right now, but when I wear my mask, I do realize that I would much rather be wearing the mask, than having to be on a ventilator!
Bottom line, if we stay focused and do the right thing by staying home as much as possible, and only leaving the house when necessary, we will work toward an end to this thing. It’s only when we do so, and keep our hands washed and wear masks, that we will help to slow things down.
Have a great month!
Suzanne
