Dr. Eboni Green
September 20, 2021
Are you trying to keep your older patients extra safe even as COVID-19 peters out and vaccinations are the norm? Adding post-pandemic concerns to a professional caregiver’s burdens is just that much more to handle, and between that and normal questions and concerns, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
Here, Caregiver Support Services provides a few practical answers about navigating this challenging time.
Regardless of pandemic fluctuation, a top concern for many caregivers remains: how to best support their older patients in a post-pandemic world. Since those over the age of 65 or with compromised health are the most vulnerable, it’s best to continue to follow the guidelines outlined by the CDC. Stay aware of the common symptoms, like fever and a dry cough, encourage appropriate hand-cleaning strategies, and if you run errands for your patient or live with them, take precautions to avoid bringing the virus into the home.
For those living at home, it’s also beneficial to help seniors with home cleaning and upkeep. Tasks like vacuuming and washing dishes can be burdensome to many older patients. Cleaning furniture is a job that once may have been relatively simple, but now it may be time to call in a pro. Furniture cleaning companies can be found online easily thanks to service directories like Angi, where you can search “furniture cleaners near me.” You’re able to check ratings and reviews, helping you narrow the search for the right reputable company. Benefits of using an experienced pro include knowing that they’ll use the best and safest cleaning products, and they know how to treat a range of fabrics and types of furniture.
In addition to keeping the house as germ-free as possible, seniors often benefit from some aging-in-place modifications. If you haven’t already worked with your patient’s family to make some, consider a few alterations to help keep them safe. For example, clearing walkways of tripping and slipping hazards and moving commonly used kitchen items to safely reachable areas can help your patient avoid accidents and injuries.
A few bathroom modifications can also boost independence and safety. A taller toilet seat and grab bars help aging bodies maneuver, and a shower seat and wand showerhead can ease washing. LoveToKnow points out that costs involved will vary depending on how much you do. Expect small changes like grab bars and other supports to run $200 to $500, while a full remodel will run $7,000 to $10,000.
While some changes inevitably occur with the aging process, that doesn’t mean seniors can’t aim for optimal well-being. First of all, certain actions will help keep your patient’s immune system functioning well, like maintaining a healthy weight and giving up unhealthy habits like smoking. It’s also important they eat a nutritious diet and get routine vaccinations.
Exercise can also play an important role in immunity. What’s more, OrthoInfo explains growing older means muscles lose mass, joints become more stiff, we tire more easily, and our metabolism slows. Being sedentary exacerbates all that. There are some simple, everyday exercises that can help your patient better maintain their muscles and joints, like wall push-ups and standing on one foot. Another idea is to try something new, like tai chi, Wii games, or chair yoga.
If your patient is struggling with routine tasks, has experienced a run of in-home accidents, or is experiencing chronic severe illness even with your help in their daily living routine, they may be considering assisted living and asking for your input. While you may harbor concerns about COVID-19 spreading rapidly in a facility, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services came out with new guidance on expanding indoor visitation in nursing homes, responding to significant reductions in COVID-19 infections and transmission. So in general, families and caregivers can rest assured that their loved ones have an appropriately safe, senior-friendly environment.
Knowing that those in your care remain vulnerable to the COVID-19 virus means being extra cautious. Take preemptive measures for yourself and your patient, and encourage them to keep up a healthy routine. Thanks to your thoughtful caregiving, you and your patient can get through this time together.
For additional training, resources and insight into caregiving, connect with Caregiving Support Services today!
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Harry Cline is creator of NewCaregiver.org and author of the upcoming book, The A-Z Home Care Handbook: Health Management How-Tos for Senior Caregivers. As a retired nursing home administrator, father of three, and caregiver to his ninety-year-old uncle, Harry knows how challenging and rewarding caregiving can be. You can learn more about Harry’s organization New Caregiver – The New Caregiver’s Comprehensive Resource: Advice, Tips, and Solutions from Around the Web
