Ease into the “New Normal” with Private Duty Home Care from Visiting Angels Annapolis
Our private duty home care services can help seniors get used to the “new normal” during the COVID-19 pandemic in Annapolis, Glen Burnie, Millersville, Pasadena, Crownsville, Arnold, Severna Park and nearby cities in Maryland
The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the lives of people in Anne Arundel County and across the country. Although the number of COVID-19 cases is declining in some areas, it’s spiking in others. Public health experts continue to recommend taking precautions to reduce the spread of the virus and to protect older, vulnerable individuals.
Communities are starting to reopen, but precautions such as wearing masks, social distancing and quarantining at home are still in place. These changes can be unsettling for seniors, especially those with dementia. Visiting Angels Annapolis offers private duty home care services plus tips and advice to help your loved one adjust to the “new normal” during COVID-19.
Discuss Safety Precautions
Older adults with memory impairment might need reminders to follow safety precautions. They might have questions about wearing masks, limited visits with family and friends or frequent hand washing. Masks can make it difficult to recognize familiar faces, which can increase confusion and apprehension. Some older adults might resist following safety rules that they don’t understand. It’s important to continue talking about safety and utilize private duty home care when needed.
If your loved one seems resistant, calmly explain the reason for safety precautions. Remind them that others are concerned for their health and well-being. Use strategies to enforce safety practices and ease stress. For example, show your loved one a photo of yourself without a mask or make a game out of washing your hands. Perhaps recall a memory of a family member who was ill and recovered.
Be honest with your older loved one about the risks of COVID-19, but don’t cause alarm. While it’s true that those with certain health conditions are at higher risk for complications, it’s also true that medical treatments are often successful. Realize that it’s normal for your loved one to worry about the COVID-19 pandemic. Stay calm and be reassuring when discussing the virus. Use phrases like, “We’re all in this together.” Remind your loved one that family members and private duty home care providers are taking precautions to keep them safe and healthy.
Prepare for Public Outings
Eventually, it will become necessary to go out in public, either for a medical appointment or other essential errand. Ease the transition by explaining what the trip might be like.
For example, before a doctor’s appointment, explain that he or she will have to wear a mask; the office staff will be wearing masks too. You might have to call the office from your car to let the staff know you have arrived and wait in your car instead of the waiting room. Office personnel might take patients’ temperatures or require a survey regarding symptoms. Upon returning home, explain that hand washing is a necessary precaution for remaining healthy.
Promote Communication with Loved Ones
Isolation from friends and family is difficult for all of us, but it’s especially tough for older adults. Before introducing others into your loved one’s “quarantine circle,” assess their risk factors, and your comfort level with those risks. If he or she is not yet ready for socializing, explain the reason for the delay. Show your family member how to use social media or video technology to connect with others. Telephone calls can be essential during this time.
Add Private Duty Home Care from Visiting Angels Annapolis to Your Routine
Rely on a trusted caregiver from Visiting Angels Annapolis to help your older loved one adjust to new routines, activities and safety precautions during the pandemic.
Our private duty home care services can include:
- Taking precautions to protect against the virus such as wearing masks, washing hands and social distancing
- Patiently explaining safety protocols
- Watching for virus symptoms such as fever, dry cough and fatigue
- Helping you loved one stay active with activities such as walking and doing craft projects
- Assisting with technology to promote connection with family and friends through our Social Care program
- Ensuring your loved one’s daily routine is followed
- Running errands so your loved one can stay at home safely
- Assisting with transportation to appointments
If you're interested in learning more about private duty home care services from Visiting Angels Annapolis, call our Millersville, MD office at 410-505-5141.