The events of past months have been hard on everyone. Seniors are at high risk, not only for the illness but also for social isolation. With social distancing can also come feelings of loneliness, whether you live with your family or on your own. The guidelines and restrictions can be challenging, especially for someone who is accustomed to visits from family and friends regularly. It is important to recognize and validate your senior’s feelings and consider new ideas and options for maintaining connections.
During this time of crisis, many people are adjusting to the new role of caregiver. This is a challenging role to take on, particularly when you aren’t prepared for it, and it hasn’t been part of any immediate care plans for your loved one. And many caregivers are finding themselves in scenarios where they are caring not only for their senior loved one but often for their entire families, full time. Questions and issues may arise, but many organizations offer support and resources.
For a loved one who is still processing fairly well, consider having a general discussion about COVID-19 and reminder him or her about regulations and essential health information. This may be a simple conversation about how they need to limit in-person interactions with others and consider moving their social activities online. This may also be an opportune time to remind them to wash their hands and reduce their risk by cleaning off surfaces they touch and wearing a face covering.
For your loved one who requires more support, it may be best to avoid discussions about COVID-19. They may not be able to process the new guidelines and fully understand what is happening at this time. These new changes may frustrate them or make them confused. Consider implementing small changes in their already daily routine, but not all at once. Small and unnoticeable changes are best as a caregiver. If you have time, consider taking the cleaning and disinfecting into your own hands.
At Evergreen Place in Champaign, we are dedicated to providing a clean and secure environment by following the CDC and CMS guidelines. Our valuable team members are working together to provide seamless communication and care to our residents and their families. We understand that these guidelines can be trying, but we must work together through these unprecedented times to ensure the safety of our community. Know that at Evergreen Place in Champaign, your loved one’s health and well-being are our highest priorities, and we are making our best effort to keep them safe and secure. Give us a call at 217-530-4300 or visit online today.
