The worldwide pandemic of COVID-19 is still gaining strength wreaking havoc on our citizens every day. Yet thankfully, there are many important things that scientists have learned about the behavior of this insidious virus that helps keep us from contracting it. One of the more important things they’ve learned that is pretty consistent throughout is that the Novel Coronavirus affects people more easily in the 65 and up age demographic. Developing a plan of action for caring for our elderly is vital in our country at this time, and at Advocare, a senior care management company in South Florida, we take the time to educate all of our caregivers about the importance of practicing social distancing and safe behaviors.
Tips to keep seniors safe during the COVID-19 Pandemic?
- Practice Social Distancing. This is our first line of defense and is still vital to practice now. The CDC recommended distance is 6-feet from each other even when walking in the street.
- Wash Your Hands Frequently for the recommended 20 seconds. This should be a given, but you’d be surprised at how many people don’t wash their hands properly. Seniors with arthritis may need some help from time-to-time. Try singing the birthday song through twice to keep track of the seconds.
- Make visitors take off their outside shoes and wash their hands immediately. Most visitors who enter your home don’t wash their hands. It’s time to get in the habit of practicing excellent hygiene now or it could mean risking the life of someone you love.
- Disinfect all counter and surfaces at home. This includes counters, tabletops, doorknobs, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards. Equipment such as wheelchairs, scooters, and walkers should also be wiped down.
- Rake shelter at home. Most of us have been given this directive. If you or someone you care for is home alone make sure they have enough food, paper goods, and groceries to last for at least a month.
- Wear gloves and a mask in the grocery store – If you must go, now all stores are recommending that you wear gloves and a mask to shop.
- Exercise. If you’ve frequented a senior center or a gym, that is put on hold now so it may be difficult to maintain your normal routine. But any movement like walking or doing light stretches can really be great for your health. It can also lift your mood during this uncertain time.
- Continue with your hobbies. Just like exercising, keeping up with your hobbies if they can be accomplished in your home like gardening, collecting stamps, cooking, sewing to knitting. Whatever occupies your loved one’s mind and brings pleasure can go a long way in sustaining long periods of isolation. At Advocare, we want to do everything to help you care for your elderly loved one at this critical time.
The most important thing to do in this time of uncertainty is not to panic but to create and implement a plan of care for your loved one. Whatever your needs for senior care management in South Florida, Advocare’s aging life care specialists can help. We begin with an assessment over the phone to help us learn about your situation and the care your family needs. Begin your search for the right help today. Call Advocare and speak with one of our care specialists to get started. Call us at (561) 266-3489. Make a difference in the life of your loved one in these uncertain times by reaching out to us today!