America Under COVID-19: The Plight of the Old

Abstract

How can we alleviate the plight of older people during COVID-19? This chapter takes stock and assesses the effectiveness of the efforts against the pandemic in the US, particularly for people over 60. It argues that this age category is often an afterthought for policy makers. The consequences of oversight, the fear of death, increased stigma and discrimination and the consequences of physical distancing and social isolation are adding to the anxiety and loneliness of the elderly. The chapter introduces four principles of the allocation of public space that privilege the old and most vulnerable citizens in parks and on public transit.