Valanciute is president and CEO of San Diego Oasis, a nonprofit organization serving people age 50 and better. She lives in Bay Park.
You may have heard about a “double pandemic” our nation is facing: COVID-19 and social isolation.
People aged 65 and older are at a higher risk for serious illness and death from coronavirus. They’re also much more likely to be socially isolated and at risk from the crippling health effects of loneliness. But this double pandemic isn’t just restricted to seniors. Thanks to coronavirus restrictions and precautions, all of us have now experienced the feelings of vulnerability and isolation that far too many older adults faced even pre-pandemic.
COVID-19 cases continue to increase, and projections aren’t looking promising after many gathered during the holidays. As we enter a fifth week under the Regional Stay-at-home order, more people will be facing isolation, particularly seniors. “I’m very outgoing and to all of a sudden be so vulnerable feeling and I don’t have any control over that,” said Jan Garbosky.. seniors Dec 17, 2020
“I couldn’t say no. There was no ‘no’ with Buddy.” John Hossick could never say no to his husband Buddy Rabaya. He especially couldn’t say no when Buddy wanted to rally the community and give seniors a little joy during the holidays. “The seniors, they don’t have a lot of company,” said Hossick while standing behind hundreds of small.