LL LIFE
How the elderly struggle to cope with Covid Photo © Philippe Leone, Unsplash
By LAURA WOODING
V
olunteers at a community hub in Aigburth are wondering how and when they will be able to continue to support local people, especially elderly residents, during the next lockdown. Covid has affected the elderly in more ways than one, with over-70s having to isolate or expected to shield if suffering medical issues. This may leave the elderly feeling lonely, depressed or even scared. In Aigburth, the Sudley Area Residents’ Association has had its Sara Hall doors closed since March 16, with all positive plans to reopen and re-engage being delayed until September, then October. Now, with further plans to postpone, it seems impossible for them to provide their services to the elderly any time soon. Steven Kearney, chairman of the Association, said: “As the majority of our sessions are with older people who would be considered more vulnerable, either because of their age or pre-existing medical conditions, we found that people were more inclined to wait and see before committing to
Photo © Vlad Sargu, Unsplash
returning to the activities at the hall.” The sessions and events bring social interaction into the lives of the elderly, but now with new community building regulations, it means tea or coffee facilities have had to be withdrawn as well as sitting in close contact or simply having a chat with a group of people. Steven said: “Everyone would have to be spaced out, with nobody able to enjoy a hot drink. Windows and doors must be wide open for ventilation and with the run-up towards winter, none of this is a conducive way to spend a leisurely morning or afternoon.” Some resources have now moved online. For example, St Anne’s Church in Aigburth is broadcasting all services and getting involved with podcasts and uploading videos on YouTube with various readings. With this being a step beyond just closing the doors, attending church virtually may be a crucial part of the routine of some local residents but could still leave them physically isolated. With another lockdown about to begin, the over-70’s could be left with the legacy of almost a full year of isolation. With people back at work and children back at school, the elderly could feel left behind.
Photo © Laura Wooding
Photo © John Moeses Bauan, Unsplash
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