Wednesday, 13 January 2021

How to Keep Elders Safe in Your Care

According to research conducted by the CDC, older adults (over the age of 65) are at a significantly higher risk of being hospitalised or dying if they become infected with COVID-19. While most elders are taking extra precautions to stay safe, and many are avoiding leaving their homes altogether, simply being around younger family members can increase their chances of coming into contact with the virus. So, what steps can you take if you live in a multigenerational household and you have a senior relative in your care? Here’s what you need to know.

Wash your hands and sanitise high-touch surfaces frequently

If there is an elderly relative living in your household, it is important to be just as diligent about washing your hands at home as you are when you are at work or out in public. Wash your hands every 30 minutes or so using soap and water.

You should also strive to sanitise high-touch surfaces a few times each day. These surfaces include doorknobs, door handles, light switches, taps, countertops, etc.

Avoid sharing

Steer clear of sharing common household items, such as utensils, towels, food, and water bottles, with your senior relative(s). Items such as television remotes, gate remotes, keys, and computer mice, should be thoroughly sanitised in between each use.

Isolate sick members of the family immediately

If anyone in the household shows symptoms such as a sore throat, dry cough, headaches or raised temperature, it is vital to isolate them from other family members immediately. It is ideal to give them a separate room and bathroom as far away from the elderly family member’s bedroom as possible.

Don't delay seeking urgent or emergency care for other ailments

Keep your elderly loved ones safe and healthy but don't avoid seeking medical care for them simply because of concerns about COVID-19. Many adults reported delaying or avoiding urgent or emergency care, leading to unnecessary complications. Routine care for the elderly should not be overlooked.

Consider hiring a caregiver

In most multigenerational households, the existing family members share the ‘load’ of caring for older relatives. This means regular close contact with multiple people and, as such, a higher risk of picking up the virus.

It is much safer for a single relative to take on the caregiving responsibilities for the time being in an effort to reduce the elder’s close contact with others. If this is not possible, hiring a dedicated live-in caregiver is another option to consider. An advantage related to this option is the fact that professional caregivers are well-trained in keeping seniors safe and reducing COVID exposure risk during these uncertain times.

As a caregiver in your family it's important to promote behaviours that reduce the spread of infection at all times. Wearing a mask and social distancing when possible from the elderly in your home will decrease the risk of spreading COVID-19.

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