Election Day 2020 is fast approaching. On Tuesday, November 3, 2020, voters from across the country will have the opportunity to set the future course of our country. Traditionally, older adults are some of the most active participants in elections.
However, this year older adults need to be cautious while voting. COVID-19 is still a threat that needs to be taken seriously. With that in mind, keep reading to get a look at how you can participate in Election Day 2020 without having to sacrifice your health while doing so.
The greatest risk for severe illness from COVID-19 is among older adults aged 85 or older. Because of that, it’s important that you do everything you can to protect your health whenever you leave your home during this pandemic.
There are several steps you should take before leaving your home to vote. First, make sure to wear a facemask. Doing so will significantly reduce your risks of contracting and spreading the coronavirus.
Second, try to exercise social distancing at the poll station. This may be difficult to do in some areas. However, do your best to keep at least six feet of distance between you and others at your voting place. It’s another step you can take to practice good health while voting.
Finally, you should also bring a portable container of hand sanitizer with you. Surfaces like voting machines and tables can carry COVID-19 germs for many hours after they’ve been touched by an infected individual. You can protect yourself from this by sanitizing your hands directly after you touch objects like these.
States across the country are expanding their mail-in voting options to account for the health risks presented by COVID-19. If you usually vote in person, now could be the perfect year to switch to a mail-in ballot.
Doing this is the best way to protect your health while participating in Election Day 2020. Your vote will be counted just the same as it would if you went to vote in person. Why not err on the side of caution and vote by mail this year?
If you do decide to vote by mail, you can start preparing yourself for that now. For example, now could be a good time to buy the supplies you need to mail in your ballot. You could also set a reminder notification on your phone’s calendar or on a physical calendar you use regularly. This will ensure you don’t miss the mail-in voting deadline unintentionally.
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If you plan on going to the polls this year, Medicare may be able to help you do it safely. You may be able to use your Medicare Advantage or Medicare Part A or Part B to get a Medicare-covered ride to your polling station.
The easiest way to figure out whether poll transportation is available in your area is to contact Time for 65. Our partnered licensed agents are standing by to tell you more about your Medicare health insurance coverage as it relates to transportation. You can fill out this form or give us a call to learn more.
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