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Coronavirus and life after 50: 10 websites that can help

Last updated 26th February 2021

3 min read

News about the coronavirus, known as Covid-19, is everywhere at the moment.

With information flying at us from every direction, it can sometimes feel overwhelming.

But what does the coronavirus mean for you, your lifestyle and your existing life insurance if you're over 50?

We’ve put together this guide of resources for finding and understanding the latest news on the coronavirus, to help you in these difficult times.

You can find out more about how SunLife are dealing with the coronavirus outbreak on our response page.

In this guide

Funerals and Coronavirus

Coronavirus has changed the face of funerals. Restrictions have been put in place and the guidelines continue to change.

Watch our video to find out more and remember to always check the latest Government guidelines.

Experiencing bereavement during the COVID-19 pandemic is exceptionally hard because you may not be able to say goodbye in the way that you would have wanted.

Different restrictions may apply but generally, people are permitted to attend a funeral as well as other commemorative events linked to a person’s death. However, you should check the current guidelines.

Funeral ceremonies will have limited numbers for those attending, whether indoors or outdoors and will depend on how many people can be accommodated safely within the premises.

Other commemorative events such as stone setting ceremonies, ash scattering or a wake, will also have restrictions on the number of people attending.

Mourners should follow social distancing guidelines and wear face coverings, when attending indoor places of worship, crematoria and burial ground chapels.

Anyone who has symptoms of COVID-19 should not attend a funeral.

If you have been instructed to self-isolate, you should not attend a funeral.

If you are organising a funeral event, you should consider inviting only close family and friends. Mourners who are clinically extremely vulnerable should stay at home.

You could consider options such as live-streaming to enable mourners to attend the funeral virtually. You might be able to delegate this to a more tech savvy relative if this seems a bit daunting, they’d be glad to help.

Since you need to avoid singing, consider using recorded music as an alternative, maybe a selection of your loved ones favourites.

Those attending should only travel to the venue with someone from your household or support bubble.

Commemorative events such as a wake or celebration of life are still permitted in a COVID-secure venue, with limits on the number of attendees, however always check the most up to date information provided by the government.

If the event is taking place in a home or garden, the relevant local guidance on socialising within the home should be followed. Sharing food should be avoided and those attending should keep in mind social distancing measures and guidance on the use of face coverings.

You might even consider deferring the wake or memorial service, until social restrictions have been lifted.

Whenever the loss of a friend or loved one happens, it can be an extremely difficult time and grief affects everyone in different ways.

Learn more about grief and support available through the NHS, Cruse Bereavement Care, which offers advice and support on dealing with bereavement and grief during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Where to find the latest information on coronavirus

1. The NHS

The NHS coronavirus site has information on symptoms, what to do if you're at a higher risk, how to prevent the spread of the virus, and how to look after yourself while in self-isolation.

If you suspect you or anyone else has symptoms of the coronavirus, head to the NHS 111 site for a step-by-step guide on what to do.

2. The UK government

The governemnt's guide to coronavirus has information on what you can and can't do during lockdown, financial support, travel restrictions, plus much more.

You can also sign up to get their email alerts, so everything you need to know goes straight to your inbox.

3. Age UK

Age UK has lots of information on the coronavirus and how it could affect those of us over 50.

They have guidelines and support on staying safe and well at home, plus tips on coping if you're anxious about the virus.

4. The BBC

The BBC has a dedicated coronavirus site, where you'll find all the latest guidance.

There are also aritcles on worldwide news, FAQs adressing common concerns, plus handy videos - like this one on how to spot covid-19 health myths.

5. Mind

Coping with all these changes to our daily life can be tough. The mental health charity Mind has tips on how to manage these changes as best we can.

6. Citizens advice

This Citizens Advice page links to organisations that can help you if you’re vulnerable, or can’t afford your bills or rent.

As there’s also been a rise in the number of scams since the coronavirus spread, they’ve also provided tips on how to spot a scam and how you can help protect yourself.

7. Which?

As well as all the latest news on the coronavirus, Which? have plenty of helpful guides - like how to cut shopping and household costs during lockdown, and what to do about your summer holiday.

8. Money Advice Service

The MoneyHelper has guidelines on what to do if the coronavirus is affecting your job, business or benefits.

Coronavirus and your protection insurance

You may be worried about how the coronavirus outbreak will affect your insurance, so it’s best to check your provider’s website.

9. The Financial Conduct Authority

The Financial Conduct Authority will be able to help you with things such as insurances, cancelled flights and any events that might have been affected due to the coronavirus.

With life insurance, your insurance should still pay out, even if you die as a result of coronavirus.

This probably won’t be the case for claims against critical illness, as most people who get the virus make a full recovery.

Your SunLife plan

SunLife products are protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme, so your payout is still guaranteed once you’ve had your plan for the required amount of time.

For more about how SunLife are dealing with the coronavirus outbreak, read our response page.

And finally our article that discusses coping with loneliness in later life may be able to help with tips to combat any negatives that come with isolated at this time.

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