Coronavirus Disease in the Elderly Population: Structure, Pathogenic Process, Treatment and Prevention

Background: Currently, in countries with rapidly aging populations, the demand for medical care, health care, nursing and services is much higher than for others. Coronavirus outbreaks are a challenge for health care systems around the world. With the advent of Covid-19, new information about it is published every day. We know that Covid-19 has more severe effects on the elderly. Geriatric patients seem to be the most vulnerable group in COVID-19. The individuals with the most severe symptoms and the highest risk of death are the elderly and those with chronic illness. Objective: The aim of this study is to provide key points about the structure, pathogenesis and treatment of Covid-19 in the elderly. Because the elderly seem to be the most sensitive age groups due to their specific age conditions. Result: Research findings show that it is difficult for the elderly to recover from Covid-19 and that the disease has many complications. Due to various risk factors, the mortality of the elderly with Covid-19 is high. Conclusion: It is necessary to first design preventive protocols and then special treatment for the elderly living in homes and care centers to reduce mortality in this age group. This important step requires the cooperation of health care providers and families together. Given the existence of chronic diseases in the elderly and the long process of treatment in them, the best course of action is to design preventive programs and focus on it.