13 August 2020
Older people are at greater risk of more serious illness if they get coronavirus. As we move towards a COVIDSafe Australia, it is important for people at greater risk to take extra steps to protect themselves.
This includes continuing to maintain 1.5 metres distance from people you do not live with and practising good hygiene.
There are a number of Australian Government-funded services available to support senior Australians during the COVID-19 pandemic. These include:
- Telehealth appointments with their regular GP rather than face-to-face appointments.
- Delivery of prescriptions through their pharmacy.
- The new Older Persons COVID-19 Support Line provides information, support and connection Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 6pm on 1800 171 866.
- People over the age of 65 can access prepared meals or priority online and telephone grocery shopping. They can contact My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 from Monday to Friday 8am to 8pm and Saturday 10am to 2pm.
- The Community Visitors Scheme is available for people feeling isolated and would benefit from friendship and companionship. Visit www.health.gov.au/cvs for more information.
- The FriendLine is for anyone who needs to reconnect or just wants a chat on 1800 424 287. All conversations with FriendLine are casual and anonymous and friendly volunteers are ready to talk about anything and everything.
If you or your patient would like further information about support services available or about COVID-19, visit the Department of Health website.