How Agencies Make In-Home Care Safe Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic

Data gathered by the National Center for Health Statistics show that the risk of severe illnesses from COVID-19 increases with age. This means that as you get older, you’re at a higher risk of developing complications that require hospitalization, intensive care, or a ventilator to help you breathe.

With the number of infections still increasing in some regions, it’s natural to want to protect your aging parents from this life-threatening infection. One area that might be a cause of concern for you is the home health care service they are receiving.

Such concerns are understandable and for many families, it warrants staying home and remaining indoors. If your elderly loved one relies heavily on in-home senior care due to chronic disease, disability, or infirmity, however, this might put you in a tough spot. Fortunately, there are agencies that are dedicated to ensuring your loved ones’ safety during this health crisis while ensuring they receive the care they need.

Professional Agencies Can Help You Through These Unprecedented Times

While there is no absolutely risk-free way to provide care, professional service providers who strictly adhere to health protocols can deliver essential care as safely as possible.

Considering this, your priority is to study your options carefully and choose an experienced service provider. These are unusual times, so look for someone who recognizes the risks of COVID-19 and proactively follows the best practices in infection control. You can rest assured that their staff are following the strictest health and safety measures to avoid contracting and spreading the virus to your loved ones.

They Monitor Their Own Wellness

Self-monitoring is an essential part of a reliable caregiver’s daily routine. Before entering your loved ones’ home, they will always check their temperature and wellness. In the event that a symptom is discovered, such as high temperature, shortness of breath, and the like, they must remain home and undergo self-quarantine until they are cleared.

If there are family members living with your aging parents, you should also monitor their health and wellness. Don’t underestimate a seemingly simple cough and remain vigilant when it comes to symptoms.

They Follow Safety Protocols

Home health aide workers are trained to follow strict health and safety protocols while at your elderly loved ones’ homes. They are instructed to wash their hands with soap and water thoroughly upon arrival, and they are also provided with masks and other necessary protective equipment. Moreover, they have received training when it comes to the disinfection of surfaces, especially high-touch points. When they return home, they are also mandated to sanitize thoroughly and observe physical distancing. All of these efforts are made to keep your loved ones safe.

They Help Your Loved Ones Cope

Experienced home health aides are also able to help your aging parents adjust to the new situation. They can educate them on the physical distancing measures and safety protocols enforced today. Moreover, they can assist your loved one when it comes to ordering their food and supplies online, and setting up Skype to call family and friends, as well as managing their daily medical issues.

Like you, your elderly loved ones are also having a tough time adjusting to the situation. Some may develop loneliness, anxiety, and even depression—all of which can be avoided with a friendly and experienced in-home aide by their side.

Conclusion

Amid this ongoing pandemic, the need for in-home geriatric care still remains. It may have even become more necessary, as families in areas under lockdown are unable to travel. With no one to accompany them, older adults are at risk not only of falls and injuries, but also of deteriorating due to isolation. Utilizing home health aide services is the best option to keep your aging loved ones safe and well as we continue to endure this global health crisis.

If you are in need of professional and reliable in-home senior care in McDonough, we’re the ones to call. We are a team of aging life care professionals with years of experience in the industry, accompanying and empowering our clients and families throughout their healthcare journey. Get in touch with us to learn how we can help you during these trying times.