Coronavirus Leaves Older Americans Cut Off: 'We Have Been Trying to Fill That Void'

The coronavirus pandemic is forcing 52 million Americans ages 65 and older into extreme quarantine, severing them from family, friends, social activities, and daily routines, reports the Wall Street Journal . Particularly vulnerable to complications or death from COVID-19 are those living in congregate settings, like assisted living communities, and who have underlying health conditions. "We've had this global awakening about the detrimental impact of isolation and now there's this sudden imperative around social distancing," said Encore.org CEO Marc Freedman. He added that his organization is attempting to fill that void, and he has been making daily video calls to his 83-year-old mother. Sending flowers is also another idea to keep seniors connected and feeling loved and valued as concerned friends and family keep a distance in order to keep their older loved ones safe. Senior residents at nursing communities are at particularly high risk of isolation, and with friends and family not allowed to visit because of the virus. This can worsen depression, confusion, and functional decline.