The dual challenges faced by the elderly during the COVID-19 pandemic in Shanghai

　　In the global spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, the elderly population in Shanghai is facing dual challenges. On the one hand, they are the most vulnerable group affected by the virus, and on the other hand, changes in the social and economic environment have made their lives even more difficult. First of all, the elderly are more susceptible to the novel coronavirus than the young in terms of physiology. Many elderly people have underlying diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, and heart disease, which put them at a higher risk after infection. In the early stage of the pandemic, Shanghai's healthcare system was under severe pressure, with a shortage of hospital resources, and many elderly patients did not receive timely treatment. In addition, due to the fear of virus transmission, many families chose to limit the elderly's outdoor activities, further isolating them and making their already fragile social networks even more distant. Secondly, the economic impact of the pandemic has also had a profound effect on the elderly上海花千坊. In Shanghai, many elderly people rely on family support or small retirement pensions for their income. However, with the economic recession caused by the pandemic, the income of many families has decreased sharply, directly affecting the support and care for the elderly爱上海龙凤419. Many elderly people have found that the support from their children has been interrupted, leading to a significant decline in their quality of life. Some even face survival crises due to a lack of food and medical care. In addition, the pandemic has changed the forms of social service provision, and many elderly people are unable to receive the necessary support and assistance. Under normal circumstances, local communities and social organizations provide some care projects for the elderly, but due to the restrictions of the pandemic, many projects have been suspended or reduced, making it difficult for the elderly to receive psychological and emotional support. In this situation, they not only have to cope with the threat to their physical health but also face the risk of mental health, with depression and anxiety increasing in the elderly population. Finally, it is necessary for society at large to pay more attention to the elderly group. Protective measures for the elderly should be strengthened, such as providing psychological counseling services, adding special medical care for the elderly, and providing living assistance. At the same time, encourage all sectors of society to participate in volunteer services, providing care and assistance to the elderly so that they can feel warmth during this difficult period. In general, the dual challenges faced by the elderly in Shanghai during the pandemic urgently need the attention of the whole society. Only through collaborative efforts can they overcome difficulties and return to a normal life and mental state.