The COVID-19 pandemic has made it difficult for family members to spend time with aging loved ones. Since people over the age of 65 are at high risk for complications from this virus, it’s important that you take a proactive approach to protect the possible spread of disease.

When a loved one has dementia, ongoing support is critical for the person’s physical and mental well-being. It doesn’t matter if your loved one is receiving services at home or in a care community, you need to be proactive in working with the provider to prevent the spread of disease.

Tips When a Loved One is Receiving Services

Any time you bring someone into your home, it increases the risk of spreading COVID-19. But many families can’t go without ongoing caregiving services. Even if you aren’t the primary caregiver for your aging family member, you can be diligent in advocating for the person’s safety. Here are a few tips to consider:

  • Reducing the Spread: Talk to the provider to learn about their practices and protocols for reducing the spread of COVID-19.
  • Daily Checks: All caregivers should fill out a health questionnaire daily. Additionally, you can check each person’s temperature before they enter the home. If the temperature is over 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit, they should get tested and stay at home in quarantine.
  • Masks and Hand Washing: Simple habits go a long way to minimize the spread of COVID-19. Ask all caregivers to wear masks during their shifts. Also, everyone should wash their hands upon arrival, and maintain a consistent schedule of handwashing throughout the day.
  • Residential Care: If your loved one is staying in a care facility, talk to the management about their procedures for managing COVID-19. Family and friends should not visit if they have any symptoms of illness. Many of these care centers are currently limiting or prohibiting visitors in order to protect the residents.

At Senior Safe and Sound, we are here to share information to help your family reduce the risk of elder abuse. If you would like additional information, feel free to contact us at any time. You can reach our team by email at info@SeniorSafeAndSound.org or call 858-480-7551.

This information is intended to inform the public at large about this important issue. It is not intended to serve as legal or medical advice.