Swine Flu and the Elderly

At-Risk Population Needs the Public's Help

ALBANY, NY (04/29/2009)(readMedia)-- While everyone is guarding themselves against the swine flu, our frail and elderly population are especially at risk.

Each of the member facilities that belong to the New York Association of Homes and Services for the Aging are on alert regarding this illness, and NYAHSA is requesting the public's help in safeguarding our at-risk elderly residents.

"If you're not feeling well, we're asking you to visit your doctor, not your dad in a nursing home or your grandmother who gets home care visits," said Carl Young, NYAHSA president. "Our nursing homes and senior services staffs are following strict infection-control programs, and the public's compliance will be of enormous help."

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Founded in 1961, the New York Association of Homes & Services for the Aging (NYAHSA) represents nearly 600 not-for-profit and public continuing care providers, including nursing homes, senior housing, adult care facilities, continuing care retirement communities, assisted living and community service providers.