COVID-19 (Page 12)

Long before the pandemic, François had an idea: introducing seniors to the use of tablet computers and the Internet to enable them to stay in touch with their family and friends, renew their prescriptions at the pharmacy, and much more. Then came the pandemic with its lockdowns and physical distancing. Instantly, the needs of seniors became much more urgent.

We would normally be able to get together with friends and family for some extra cheer, but as we all know, physical distancing is required to limit the spread of COVID-19. With many of us at home this season, here are some suggestions for (free!) activities to keep you entertained.

When residents in the Shelburne area of Nova Scotia need support paying for vital necessities like medications, eyeglasses, medical equipment or food, the Shelburne and Area Lions Club steps up to help.
However, due to COVID-19, the Club had to close its doors and community members who relied on them for help had to search for alternatives. Now, with the Club reopening, there are several unforeseen expenses as they try to adhere to new health and safety protocols.

When the COVID-19 pandemic was declared, newcomer families to Canada were among those hit particularly hard. Regularly accessed community programs shut down, and the sense of isolation grew as spring turned to summer.
 

Seniors, who are among those at greatest risk of severe illness due to COVID-19, have found many of their facilities closed and programs cancelled during the pandemic. After 108 days in self-isolation, 75-year-old James Burgess decided to take action and assist his community on the south shore of Montréal by applying for a grant from the Canadian Red Cross.

Imagine moving to a new country during a global pandemic. Already feeling the isolating effects of unfamiliar surroundings, you’re now faced with the challenge of making a new life for yourself and your family during a widespread lockdown. 

Nobody can say with certainty what will happen on October 31 this year, but the pandemic will alter some traditional merriment, especially trick-or-treating. Will we be able to celebrate the day, which kids are so eagerly awaiting, while still keeping them and others safe? What we do know is that Halloween will look a little different this year. Since it falls during the weekend, instead of having to hurriedly mark the occasion after school on a weeknight, we can take the time to celebrate all day long.

Doctors, nurses and other healthcare workers in conflict zones work under challenges most of us can’t imagine; treating frequent injuries from bombs and bullets, dealing with disrupted supply lines, and managing hospitals and clinics that are damaged or even under attack.
Now imagine adding COVID-19 into that mix.
Red Cross Talks reached out to Hossam Elsharkawi to discuss the additional threat that the global pandemic poses to those who live and work in areas of conflict.