Corona virus lockdown day 11. I make no apologies for repeating this message as many of the most vulnerable, those over 70, may have not heard nor under stood the urgency of this message.
Be kind be gentle and patient to our elderly citizens. Some older people are confused, lonely, frightened and in pain.
They are worried how they will get food and their medication . They do not have the communication systems that the younger generation have. Let them know and that help is available. Let them know we care. If you are not in a position to help, then pass them on to someone who can, your Ward Councillor Lisa Thomson is available on 021 179 8256.
Be aware of the changing situation.
For what ever reason, shock, denial, fear, panic concern for themselves and others, many pensioners did not heed she initial warning from the New Zealand Government. Even when our Prime Minister, Jacinda Ardern on the March 21 asked everyone over 70 to stay at home, and the public not to panic buy, the message did not get through. Hundreds spent the weekend emptying goods off shelves. The old adage ‘You can lead a horse to water but you cannot make it drink,’ springs to mind.
Help is available for Senior Citizens in Lockdown
Everyone must stay at home. There are exceptions such as the medical and emergency services and those helping to provide essential goods and amenities. Since the lockdown (March 26) everyone was asked to self-isolate. There are several types of isolation groups called “bubbles”. One of the first groups asked to self-isolate was the senior citizens, classed as the most vulnerable and most at risk from catching the Corona Virus and possibly dying from the disease. Not all bubbles are equal, some people will be entirely on their own, many will be couples and others will be in family ‘bubbles’. Keep in Your Bubble. Stay Safe. Ask for Help. Send Love to those you cannot reach.
Pauline Abrahams
Paying your bills – don’t worry, there are a number of ways you can do this:
1. You can ring your bank and they will help you to pay your bills.
2. You can set up phone banking – ring up your bank and they will be able to talk you through how to do it.
3. If you have a computer, you can call your bank and they can help you set up internet banking.
4. Unsure what to do – reach out and ask for help, your community is here to help.
