Minimize exposing Covid-19 to elders
You are likely aware by now that seniors are vulnerable to viruses such as Covid-19. The fragility of their immune systems due to cancer, diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, and other chronic medical conditions make them more susceptible to viruses. They are even. more at risk when their caregivers or loved ones are not taking serious precautions to keep our everyone safe and healthy.
There are ways as a caregiver to decrease the spread of the coronavirus from an elderly parent, friend, or patient.
There are ways as a caregiver to decrease the spread of the coronavirus from an elderly parent, friend, or patient. Most importantly, the best thing for you to do is:
Stay healthy
Prepare food, provide care, and make an exchanges from your hands to theirs by making sure your hands are clean. Wash your hands for 20 seconds with warm soap and water.
Make social distancing a lifestyle
Avoid social crowding and shoulder-to-shoulder contact. If you are visiting, wear a N95 or K95 mask as a barrier between you and infected individuals.
Find healthy ways to be connected
Studies show that isolation, loneliness, and living alone are risk factors for early mortality. Find creative ways to support the mental and emotional health of your senior. Check in on them from a distance, have a fun and productive phone conversation, meet them for coffee over zoom, or begin a virtual book club or Bible study. Even sitting them on their front porch to say hello to their neighbors, passerby’s, or their mailman or lady, is a healthy start to connectivity. If any of this is difficult to implement, consider working with an healthcare agency, such as our own, to provide care and companionship.
Consider TeleMed for appointments
If an appointment is not absolutely necessary or can wait, reschedule these appointments for a later time. Less exposure is better than taking chances and risking infection.
Address all symptoms
Do not visit your loved one whose immune system could be compromised due to your presence if you are not feeling well. Make arrangements for food, water, and supplies to be sent to their home by a delivery service or someone who is not ill. Monitor your symptoms and follow CDC protocol before bering in close contact with your love one. Love them enough to stay away physically, but maybe find other ways to connect if you are able.Â
The best way to care for them is to care first for yourself.
