Coronavirus Lockdown Advice for the Elderly
Please note: this information was last updated 15 January 2021 – please consult government guidelines for the most up-to-date information.
On 23 March 2020 lockdown in the UK began and since then the restrictions have been revised multiple times.
This is a very worrying time for many, especially if you are in one of the most at risk demographics – the elderly. Therefore we wanted to help clarify what the latest phase of ‘lockdown” really means for you.
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Elderly Lockdown Advice FAQ
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Can my friends and family visit me during the latest phase of the coronavirus lockdown?
Visits are currently restricted. However the specific restrictions vary slightly depending on where you live.
- In England, it isn’t currently allowed for friends and family to visit you inside or outside your home (e.g. in your garden), unless they form part of a bubble with you, or are assisting in your care. You can however meet one other person from outside your household for exercise (e.g. a walk) outdoors in public areas.
- In Scotland, the same applies – unless they are visiting you to assist in your care or form a bubble with you, your friends and family should not enter your home. A maximum of two people from up to two households can meet outdoors for exercise.
As an elderly person can I go outside during this phase of the coronavirus lockdown?
Yes, you are able to go outside for essential reasons such as exercise, or shopping for food or medicine (see above question for specific restrictions).
During this phase of lockdown, as an elderly person, can I still go to the supermarket?
Yes, you can go to the supermarket. Essential businesses and services are still open, including supermarkets, food shops, pharmacies and garden centres.
Many supermarkets still have dedicated some time for vulnerable people, that includes the elderly, to do their shopping. It is recommended that you review your local supermarkets website for details on when this is.
However, whenever you do go to the shops it is important that you wear a mask over your nose and mouth at all times.
I receive care at home, is it still safe for my carers to visit me in my home during the recent phase of the coronavirus outbreak?
If you are receiving care at home, it is still safe for your carer(s) to enter your home to provide essential care. All care workers will be following very strict guidelines on hygiene to reduce the risk of infection during your visits.
I am self isolating, is it possible to get care support to help me with shopping?
Being self isolated comes with lots of difficulties and worries, including how to get your shopping or collect your pension etc. There are care at home providers located throughout the UK that will be able to help support you with this. Enter your postcode here to search and compare care providers in your local area who will be able to help.
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