By Theresa Edelstein
Since COVID-19 made its unwelcome entrance into the Garden State, news of its harsh and unforgiving impact on older adults has been in the headlines. The loss of older members of our families has touched almost everyone. New Jersey, with 1,474,443 older adults, has one of the fastest growing number of senior citizens in the nation. Supporting their health as they age should be a societal priority.
At times while we have been battling this virus, some cynics have suggested that it might be acceptable to sacrifice older adult lives for the sake of economics or a return to life as we knew it. That suggestion wreaks of ageism and denies the richness of wisdom, experience and perspective that comes with advanced age. In the face of these unprecedented times, our elders have been venerable --impressive and commanding great respect.
No matter where they live, hundreds of elders who have fallen ill with COVID-19 have recovered. Their resilience, optimism, faith and strength of will helped them be active participants with their healthcare team in their care and recovery. For months, most elders have made only essential trips out of their homes for food, medication and other necessities. This has led to increased isolation and loneliness, but it has also meant that many elders have learned how to use new smartphone and computer applications to remain in touch with family and friends and even to play virtual games. They are flexible and have a thirst for learning. Many milestone birthdays and anniversaries have occurred during these “stay-at-home” months. So much creativity has been dedicated to celebrating those marking birthdays of 100 years or more, or couples who have been married for a half-century or longer. And, our elders have reached out to college and high school seniors on social media through #Seniors4Seniors2020 to send words of encouragement to those who missed out on their own milestone ceremonies and celebrations. Many have used their sewing, cooking, building and other skills to contribute cloth masks, meals and other items to support the response efforts by healthcare and other essential workers. They are generous in spirit and in actions.
There is no doubt that part of the road forward from COVID-19 requires an unflinching look at the problems revealed in the pandemic and their underlying causes, including the disproportionate impact on senior communities. Further exploration is needed to enhance preventive care and infection prevention and control. Partnering with elders is required to design a more coordinated, cohesive system of care that focuses on their preferences, priorities and needs. Improved use of data to identify risks related to housing, transportation, nutrition and socialization and predict outcomes are all areas demanding further exploration.
This begins with all of us embracing growing older. It is not something to avoid thinking about or talking about. It is not something to delay or dismiss. It is not something to feel uncomfortable about. It is normal and a source of valuable expertise and experience. All this is to say our elders continue to teach us how to live, if only we will listen.
Theresa Edelstein, a licensed nursing home administrator, is senior vice president of Partnerships Transforming Health at the New Jersey Hospital Association.
