Senior caregivers need to carefully weigh risks vs. benefits of venturing out.After months of isolating from loved ones and close friends, many people are venturing out during the pandemic. Nevertheless for senior citizens in particular, is it safe to consider heading out?
Regrettably, there is no cut-and-dry answer, and a range of criteria must be considered to come to the very best decision for keeping seniors safe. For instance:
- What medical conditions is the senior loved one experiencing?
- How challenging has it been for him or her to be separated from loved ones?
- Is the incidence rate for the virus subsiding or increasing where you live?
As a family caregiver, the best place to start is sitting down and having a one-on-one discussion with the older adult. If your senior loved one is adamantly set on a particular activity, such as seeing the grandchildren or taking a walk in the neighborhood park, make sure he or she thoroughly understands the potential risks involved.
Make sure you’re up to date as well on the latest news from trusted sources on any new recommendations and/or precautions. Think about this information as only one part of your decision-making process, however, as opposed to an end-all perspective.
Secondly, broach the subject with the senior’s healthcare provider for an expert opinion and also for advice about weighing potential risk factors against the benefits associated with increased socialization and engagement in the community. You may also wish to seek advice from other loved ones and carefully consider their input as well ahead of making the ultimate plan on exactly how to proceed.
Above all, take plenty of time to ensure you’re doing what is most beneficial for your loved one’s overall health and wellbeing, as opposed to making a quick decision that you might later regret. If you’re still uncertain about what to do, it could be better to try to avoid heading out with the older adult for the moment and revisit the matter at another time. And keep in mind that you always have the choice to change your thinking if for any reason you are uncomfortable with the first decision.
Whether both you and your loved one are comfortable with the choice to head out and about, or make the decision to continue staying at home, you can depend on Home Sweet Home In-Home Care, the top providers of home care in Kalamazoo, MI and the surrounding area, to assist with services such as accompanied transportation, companionship, running errands including buying groceries, and an assortment of other types of assistance, always in compliance with proper safety protocols. Reach out to us at (866) 229-2505 any time for more info, or to schedule a free in-home consultation.