When it comes to COVID-19, elderly people are especially vulnerable. Research shows that adults 60 and over, especially those with preexisting conditions, are more likely to have severe or deadly symptoms. If you find yourself caregiving for a senior with COVID-19, we want you to know how to keep them safe.
Keep yourself well
First off, your health is most important as a caretaker. Without you feeling your best, you can’t give your best care to your elder loved one. Some of the basics you should be following includes:
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before and after providing care, preparing food, using the bathroom, or touching any surfaces where the virus can be spread.
- Avoid crowds as much as possible and always wear a mask or face covering.
- Keep your hands away from your face, especially your nose and mouth. This is the most common way that people tend to infect themselves.
- Clean frequently touched surfaces in your home including medical equipment such as walkers, canes, or handrails.
Practice physical distancing, but not necessarily social isolation
It can be tough caring for a loved one with COVID-19. You may feel that while you are being cautious to not spread the disease to others, you can’t cherish your time with other family and friends. Physical distancing doesn’t have to mean loneliness. In fact, social isolation can have a negative impact on a senior’s mental health and immunity. Encourage your senior loved one to keep in contact with others through phone calls, video chat, social media, or from a safe distance to others. Community often is a big support. Encourage your other family and friends to keep in touch as well, or even send cards to lift their spirits.
When in doubt, call a doctor
Given that the elderly are so much more at risk of developing deadly symptoms with COVID-19, it’s best that you keep in touch with their doctor frequently and don’t hesitate when something doesn’t feel right. If any concern arises, you should have them seen right away.
We realize that sometimes caring for your elderly loved ones can be difficult, especially with the added stresses that come with this ever evolving pandemic. Don’t be afraid to reach out for help if you need it because the well-being of yourself and your loved one should be your number one priority.
Comfort Keepers of Santa Clarita is the largest provider of home care services in the Santa Clarita Valley, with over a decade of experience with senior home care. It is our mission to support families in need by offering services that range from part-time to long-term.
Your aging loved one deserves to stay in the comfort of their own home, and with a Caregiver from Comfort Keepers Santa Clarita, you can rest assured knowing that they are in safe hands.
Each trained caregiver is a professional trained to make sure your loved one is safe & happy. One of our Care Managers would love to answer any questions you may have, so give us a call to learn more about our wide range of services for both you and your senior loved one.
Comfort Keepers of Santa Clarita
23900 Lyons Ave
Santa Clarita, CA 91321
(661) 523-0322
www.homecaresantaclarita.com
