Monday, 23 November 2020

No One Should Have No One - Doing Christmas with COVID

Throughout the year, individuals with elderly relatives have been cautioned against in-person visits to limit the likelihood of the senior coming into contact with the virus. Unfortunately, older people are at a much higher risk of experiencing severe symptoms and complications should they contract COVID-19. As the festive season nears, the question on everyone’s minds is ‘Can I invite my senior relatives to celebrate with the rest of the family?’. The answer, in short, is yes.

During this special time of the year, no one should have no one, even if it is for ‘safety’s sake’. The great news is that it is indeed possible to celebrate Christmas with your elderly loved ones included in the festivities. You just have to know how to do so safely and to it with as much social distancing in your home as you have space to manage. Here are some tips.

Wear a mask

Let’s face it – you want to wear a classic Santa hat or elf ears over Christmas – not an uncomfortable face mask. But the reality is that a mask is the best line of defence if you want to keep your older relatives safe. A mask helps to protect those around you because it makes it far less likely for you to release any potentially harmful pathogens into the air when you talk, laugh, sneeze, or cough. As such, it is recommended that you insist that everyone wears a mask except when drinking or eating. It is also a good idea to consider seating your elderly loved ones at the head(s) of the table to provide a greater physical distance between them and others.

Sanitise surfaces

Make an effort to sanitise frequently touched surfaces regularly throughout Christmas Day. These surfaces include countertops, taps, toilet flushers, light switches, doorknobs and handles, and stair railings. Ideally, you should try to do this every hour or so.

Better yet, try to prevent your elderly relatives from touching any of these surfaces whatsoever, encouraging them to call for help instead.

Monitor your household’s symptoms

Be very strict about keeping a close eye on your household’s health in the weeks and days leading up to Christmas. If you notice any of the symptoms of COVID popping up, such as a dry cough, fever, sore throat, fatigue, etc., cancel the plans for your family gathering immediately and rather opt to celebrate virtually using Skype, Zoom, or Microsoft Teams.

During these uncertain times, it is far better to be safe than sorry!

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