Older people are more susceptible to COVID-19. This is the new coronavirus that causes the disease. Researchers have found that older adults, particularly those who already suffer from pre-existing conditions such as lung disease, diabetes, heart disease or cancer, are at greater risk of developing a severe or deadly coronavirus.
How can we keep them happy and healthy without putting their lives at risk? Simple answer: do it remotely. You can keep your parents happy, healthy, safe and loved, whether they live near you or elsewhere. These are some great ideas to get you started.
To avoid infection, follow these guidelines.
As a caregiver, it is vital that you take good care of yourself if you live with parents. Take all precautions to prevent yourself from becoming infected. Here are some basic information.
- Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer or soap and water to clean your hands frequently. It is important to wash your hands before and after you provide care, prepare their food, use the bathroom or touch public surfaces.
- Wear a mask when you go out to prevent contracting diseases from other people. You can buy your masks from https://facemasks-uk.com/.
- Avoid touching your face.
- Avoid crowded areas and use disposable tissues or the bend of your elbow to sneeze or cough.
- Use disinfectants to clean surfaces that are frequently touched in your home. Surfaces also includes medical equipment, mobility equipment, such as canes and walkers, as well handrails.
You can arrange for delivery services to be made available to your elderly parents.
It is even more difficult for older adults due to reduced mobility, lack transportation and social isolation. You can help your parents out by going over their list of necessities and setting up delivery services for as many items as possible. You can either do the ordering for them or guide them through each step. Consider the following:
- You can arrange for household item delivery through local shops or Amazon.
- You can arrange for the delivery of their prescription medications at their local pharmacy.
- Local restaurants offering such services can offer you a service of delivering meals that are already prepared.
- Have groceries delivered by the local supermarket.
Keep in contact with them.
Keep in touch with your parents as they age and ensure that they feel cared for and loved. A phone call may not replace hugs, kisses, and meals shared with your parents but it is better than no communication. You can call your parents every day using Zoom or other video calling options. Include everyone in your family, and especially the grandchildren. This will make your parents happy, and you won’t feel lonely.
Encourage your parents to keep in touch with their friends. You can encourage them to play online chess, checkers, cards or other games with their friends. It helps them maintain their vibrant social life that they had before the pandemic.
