There are numerous concerns regarding the Coronavirus and senior care. Although the disease can be contracted by all age groups, it is necessary to pay special attention to the elderly and people who have severe underlying medical conditions like heart or lung disease as they are at higher risk for developing serious complications from COVID-19 illness. As the coronavirus continues to spread, we want to make sure our loved ones are protected and healthy by taking protective measures and providing preventative care information.
1+1 Cares is dedicated to our seniors and their families and is taking proactive measures to support our clients during this time. Because older adults are particularly vulnerable to COVID-19, we want to reassure families and referred caregivers that we are monitoring this situation closely and taking precautions to help prevent the spread of the virus. Here are some tips for families from the CDC.
Washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing helps prevent the spread of infections. If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry.
Avoiding close contact with people who are sick. Practice social distancing by putting a distance of 6 feet (about 2 arm's length) between yourself and other people outside of your home.
Everyone should wear a cloth face cover when they have to go out in public, for example, to the grocery store or to pick up other necessities.
If you are in a private setting and do not have your face covering on, remember to always cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, or use the inside of your elbow.
Cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces daily. This includes tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, and sinks.
Many have wondered if visiting and providing senior care to their elderly relatives is safe during the coronavirus, even if they don't have symptoms. It is such a big trade-off because interacting and being socially engaged are vital to getting through this difficult time. But we know that the best prevention is to social-distance and keep away. There are many ways of staying in touch and not feel isolated or disconnected. For example, staying connected over the phone, video chat, or social media. Let's not forget the old fashion snail mail. Often, personal mail can have significant sentimental value. It can be read over and over throughout the years by the recipients.
It is crucial to social distance because, for every one person who has symptoms, there are many more people who have the infection, who don't have symptoms. And they are the ones that are infecting everybody else. This reality makes preventive measures all the more important.
Our first priority at 1+1 Cares is the health and safety of the caregivers and the elderly clients we serve every day. As a leading home care referral agency, we've taken steps to minimize the exposure risks while balancing the needs of seniors. Despite the challenges associated with COVID-19, in-home caregivers are providing essential home care services for older adults.
1+1 Cares' referred in-home caregivers continue to be home care heroes on the frontlines, taking necessary steps to protect elderly loved ones and themselves, as well as doing whatever it takes to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
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