Hello everyone, my mum who has Alzheimer's, has received a "shielding" letter this morning, which was a bit of a shock.
We're not sure which category she comes under to need 12 weeks shielding; it could be her age, she'll be 90 this year or could it be the AZ diagnosis or the fact she has had a couple of chest infections over the last three years which cleared up quickly with antibiotics, she doesn't have any permanent lung/heart problems. Her medication consists of Donepezil, a sleeping tablet and thyroxin.
To be honest, I secretly worried it would be my husband who would receive a letter as he has underlying health issues. We have been very cautious up till now, only shopping when necessary and walking where nobody goes.
Can I seek your advice please: -
1) The letter says mum should not go out, we take her for a short walk nearly every day from the house and I really would like to continue with that as it does her good. My concern is if mum doesn't walk out for 12 weeks, she will lose her mobility for good. She is too frail and arthriticky to exercise any other way. Am I failing her and the NHS by taking her out?
2) The letter gives advice about online registering of mum as vulnerable, which we are assuming is the key to priority online shopping. Do you think we should use that service or OH and I carry on shopping locally when necessary.
Life is such a worry for everyone at the moment, what to do for the best.
I would be ever so grateful to hear your opinions.
We're not sure which category she comes under to need 12 weeks shielding; it could be her age, she'll be 90 this year or could it be the AZ diagnosis or the fact she has had a couple of chest infections over the last three years which cleared up quickly with antibiotics, she doesn't have any permanent lung/heart problems. Her medication consists of Donepezil, a sleeping tablet and thyroxin.
To be honest, I secretly worried it would be my husband who would receive a letter as he has underlying health issues. We have been very cautious up till now, only shopping when necessary and walking where nobody goes.
Can I seek your advice please: -
1) The letter says mum should not go out, we take her for a short walk nearly every day from the house and I really would like to continue with that as it does her good. My concern is if mum doesn't walk out for 12 weeks, she will lose her mobility for good. She is too frail and arthriticky to exercise any other way. Am I failing her and the NHS by taking her out?
2) The letter gives advice about online registering of mum as vulnerable, which we are assuming is the key to priority online shopping. Do you think we should use that service or OH and I carry on shopping locally when necessary.
Life is such a worry for everyone at the moment, what to do for the best.
I would be ever so grateful to hear your opinions.