More Than Half of Seniors Report Coronavirus-Related Care Disruption

A survey of 1,039 U.S. seniors by the National Opinion Research Center at the University of Chicago found that 55 percent have had disruptions in medical care in the first month of social distancing for the coronavirus pandemic, reports HealthLeaders Media . In addition, 39 percent of respondents canceled or delayed non-essential medical treatment, 32 percent canceled primary or preventive care, and 15 percent canceled essential treatment. Respondents are mainly concerned about interruptions in their care regime, versus other issues like remaining physically active, support for daily living, and finding mental stimulation. Of the 21 percent of respondents who used telehealth since the start of the pandemic, 49 percent said it was about the same as an in-person visit. Just 4 percent rated it "much worse." "The first month of social distancing in America . . . created a situation where many older adults are not getting the care they need to manage serious health conditions," said SCAN Foundation CEO Bruce Chernof. "As our nation grapples with when and how to reopen, the healthcare system will reckon with unaddressed medical needs and learn how to maximize new protocols to care for older adults with complex needs in flexible, person-centered ways."