'Go back to the things you love doing'

Pensioners scarred from Covid-19 pandemic urged to reconnect with society

- SEAN MURPHY

PENSIONERS still scarred by the Covid-19 pandemic have been urged to take "that first step and reconnect" with society

The plea by Chief Medical Officer Professor Breda Smyth yesterday fell on the third anniversary of the first confirmed infection in Ireland.

Within weeks, a full lockdown was announced and older people were classed as vulnerable and instructed to stay indoors to cocoon.

It was not until six weeks later in May that over 70s were allowed outside their front door - but still subject to restrictions.

The measures had such an impact on many elderly people, some remain too afraid to reintegrate. As the HSE launched its Hello Again World campaign to encourage reintegration, Professor Smyth yesterday assured pensioners they can return to their lives.