Caregiving Tips To Keep Houston Seniors Safe From Coronavirus
The new coronavirus causes COVID-19, which makes old people vulnerable to severe diseases. Research shows that people who are more likely to have serious or even deadly coronavirus infections are people aged 60 years and above with preexisting medical conditions like cancer, diabetes, lung disease, or heart disease. This age group is more vulnerable than other age groups.
Take Care Of Yourself
Firstly, caretakers can avoid getting infected with the virus by taking all the precautions. As a caretaker, the following are some of the precautions you can take.
- Before and after you provide care, touch surfaces in public areas, or use the bathroom, use soap and water to wash your hands for more than 20 seconds.
- Avoid crowded places. And sneeze or cough into a disposable tissue or the bend of your elbow.
- Do not touch your face with your hands.
- Clean the surfaces, which you frequently touch, in your home. Also, if your loved one uses medical or mobility equipment, such as handrails, canes, or walkers, then clean them.
Observe Social & Physical Distancing But Not Social Distancing
Do not practice social isolation. Instead, practice social and physical distancing.
Limiting in-person visits can help lower the risk of your older loved ones from catching COVID-19. However, some older people love spending time with their family members and friends, so this can be tough for them.
Social distancing can lead to loneliness and isolation, but the safety of old people is more important. However, social isolation may negatively affect the immunity and mental health of old people.
The pandemic has forced several houses of worship to close their doors, and they will remain closed until the pandemic eases. This has made a lot of older people feel cut off. The social lives of many older adults usually include faith communities. As a caretaker, you can help your loved one get their spiritual solace and support through online services and outreach.
Using Technology To Stay Connected
Here is how you can help your old loved ones feel less lonely, purposeful, and involved during this pandemic:
Teach them how to use tablets, smartphones, or laptops to video chat with other people.
If you live with an older person with hearing challenges, show them how to use the apps that provide captions on the device.
To lift the spirits of your loved ones, encourage your friends and family members, who are not staying with you, to send cards, write notes, or call them.
Keeping Older People Involved
For older people staying at home, give them projects to work on. For example, you can go through and organize old photos with them. Inspire them by sharing happy memories and good stories. Also, let old loved ones cook your favorite family meal, and if they love songs or movies, ask them to share their favorite movies and songs with your family members.
Reduce The Risk Of COVID-19 Infection
Avoid visiting the doctor, if it is not necessary. If the older person you are taking care of is not sick, you can postpone non-essential doctor visits, such as annual checkups, elective procedures, and many more.
You should know that old people living with chronic diseases usually have a good relationship with their caregivers. Help your loved one stay in touch with their caregiver by calling their caregiver’s office to ask if they offer telemedicine, which helps avoid face-to-face meetings because it allows doctors and patients to keep in touch over email, video, or other means.
Do not travel. Older people should avoid unnecessary traveling, trips, and cruises because it can expose them to crowds.
Give us a call or contact Assisting Hands Houston today for more pieces of information! Visit our blog for more related articles.
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