Seniors have a very valid reason to be concerned about the recent spread of COVID-19. While your loved one is safest at home, they may find that spending long periods alone increases their anxiety. Your loved one may be at a higher risk for developing health complications if they catch the virus, but you can help them lessen their fears with these four benefits that in-home care provides.
Help Them Practice Social Distancing
Your loved one reduces their risk significantly by decreasing how much social contact they have with other people. If they have struggles that require assistance, then bringing a caregiver who can help them in their home reduces the amount of social contact they have compared to other options such as going to an assisted living facility. In-home care services also include assistance with things such as grocery shopping, so your loved one can avoid going to public places.
Reassure Them That Their Environment Is Sanitary
Older adults often struggle with housekeeping tasks, and your loved one may worry that they can't keep their home clean enough to reduce germs. Their caregiver can help with tasks such as wiping down commonly touched surfaces. They can also use additional strategies to reassure your loved one that they are safe, such as washing their hands as soon as they enter the home.
Help With Health Maintenance
A healthy senior is better able to fight off the virus if they do somehow catch it. Taking charge of their health also gives your loved one a sense of control over what is happening right now. Your loved one's in-home caregiver can assess their needs and administer services accordingly. From helping them eat a nutritious diet to preventing injuries, your loved one benefits from being able to improve or maintain their general health.
Provide Enjoyable Distractions
The news is full of anxiety-inducing stories right now, and a senior who lives alone might not be able to avoid getting wrapped up in them. Home care providers spend time doing activities with seniors that not only improve their abilities but also help to keep seniors distracted from upsetting news. As your loved one puts together a puzzle or reads a book with their caregiver, they enjoy a welcome break from all of the stress. Your loved one can also feel free to talk to their caregiver about their feelings so that they feel relief from their anxiety.
Reach out to in-home care services in your area for more information.
