The current advice for Australians aged 70 years and over, people aged 65 years and over with chronic medical conditions, people with compromised immune systems, and indigenous Australians over the age of 50 is to self-isolate at home to the maximum extent practicable. But this doesn’t mean they cannot go outside.

It is important to go outside, stretch your legs and soak up some vitamin D in your yard, on your balcony or in the street outside your residence. Being stuck in a room all day can affect your mental health, so changing your environment is really important. The government advice states that senior Australians can “go outside and be accompanied by a support person for the purposes of getting some fresh air, some recreation.” Go for a short walk and do some light exercise, even just for ten minutes a day if you can. Nick pointed out that if physically stepping outside isn’t an option for you or your loved ones, opening the windows and allowing fresh air and light to enter the house can be just as beneficial.

Whilst outdoors, our carers assist clients to follow physical distancing rules at all times. These rules include maintaining a distance of 1.5m from others, and avoiding handshakes and other physical greetings altogether. When our carers transport clients to and from medical appointments, we ensure that the client is sitting in the back seat diagonal to the driver, adhering to the latest guidelines provided by the government.