City of Dallas guides Seniors on how to stay safe during COVID-19

The City of Dallas is closely monitoring the national outbreak of COVID-19 and is working with Dallas County Health and Human Services (DCHHS), The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to ensure the City has best practices in place for the general public. According to the CDC, older adults, especially senior population, and people of any age who have serious underlying medical conditions might be at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19.

With the current uncertainty around the city reopening, the city wants to express how Seniors can stay safe and remind you of the resources available to you during COVID-19.

Are you at risk?

Based on information provided by the CDC, those at high-risk for severe illness from COVID-19 include:

People aged 65 years and older
People who live in a nursing home or long-term care facility

Other high-risk conditions could include:

People with chronic lung disease or moderate to severe asthma
People who have serious heart conditions
People who are immunocompromised including cancer treatment

Per the CDC, COVID-19 symptoms include fever, cough and shortness of breath and may appear 2-14 days after exposure. If a person shows emergency warning signs, they should seek medical attention immediately. Emergency warning signs include, but are not limited to:

Trouble breathing
Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
New confusion or inability to arouse
Bluish lips or face

For additional information from the CDC, visit www.cdc.gov/coronavirus.

Know your risk and protect yourself

To protect yourself and others, the CDC recommends the following:

Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water aren’t available, use a hand sanitizer (at least 60% alcohol). Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Distance yourself at least 6’.
Stay home if you are sick, except to get medical care.
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze or use the inside of your elbow.
Wear a facemask if you are sick.

Be aware of scammers

During a time where Seniors are most vulnerable, scammers use this time to attempt to steal your personal information and your identity for financial gain. Seniors are most vulnerable to these scammers, as they prey on those that are unsuspecting and trusting. To see tips for staying safe and avoid scams, please see the Office of Community Care, Senior Affairs Spring 2020 Newsletter, page 4.

For more information, call the City of Dallas Office of Community Care at (214) 671-4045.

Available resources for COVID-19

General resources for seniors include the following: