Community connections

For many people, physical distancing (often referred to as social distancing) and self-quarantine can be hard. However, we can still check in on each other and look after the most vulnerable in our communities.

Disability

People with a disability are at higher risk of contracting COVID-19 and as such, may require extra support. The NDIS is providing a number of supports for people with a disability during this time.

Disability support workers, including those working in Allied Health professions, should not attend work if they have fever or respiratory symptoms.

Look after the elderly

The elderly are the most at risk of developing life threatening complications as a result of contracting COVID-19. Elderly people are also often socially isolated, which will only be exacerbated as social distancing, self-isolation, shut downs and lock-downs ramp up.

If you have an elderly neighbour, friend or family member – check in on them and make sure they are doing OK. In the case of a friend or family member, this may be something as simple as a phone call or for a neighbour you know well, a knock on the door.

Are you unwell?

It goes without saying: if you are unwell, stay home. Even if the symptoms you are experiencing are mild.

The statistics show that people with compromised immune systems and the elderly are most at risk of developing life threatening complications from COVID-19. Even if your symptoms are mild, you don’t want to be transmitting it to someone else and in the process, potentially put their life in danger.

Essentials for coping with self-isolation

Self-quarantine, particularly for those who are most at risk, can potentially last a long time. For many people, this will be a very difficult time. However, in absence of a vaccine or effective treatment – keeping your distance from other people is the only known way of stopping the spread of COVID-19.

It is important to know that self-isolation does not mean social isolation. Although you may not be able to see your friends and family (who don’t live at your home) in person, you can still communicate with them via phone calls or online video chat platforms.

It is important to note that while services such as supermarkets will remain open during this crisis (as these are classed as an essential service), those most at risk should still limit the amount of time they spend in the community in order to reduce their risk of contracting COVID-19.

If possible, have a friend or family member purchase and deliver food or other essential items on your behalf. If you need to go to the supermarket yourself, buy more to last you longer (but don’t go overboard! There are other people in the same situation).

Doing things to keep yourself occupied is also important. Whether that be listening to/playing music, movies, gardening, and whatever else. Self-quarantine does not mean you can’t exit your house, it doesn’t mean that you can’t go for a walk.