Helping Seniors Adapt to the “New Normal” with At-Home Care Services from Visiting Angels Denver

At-home care services from Visiting Angels can help seniors in Wheat Ridge, Denver, Golden and surrounding areas in Colorado adjust to the “new normal” during the COVID-19 pandemic

Lifestyle changes due to the COVID-19 pandemic have affected people in the Denver, CO area 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 avoiding public gatherings are still in place.

These changes can be unsettling for seniors, especially those with dementia. Visiting Angels Denver offers at-home care services plus advice to help your loved one adjust to the “new normal” during COVID-19.

Discuss Safety Precautions and Offer Assurance

Older adults with memory impairment might forget 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 remind seniors about safety precautions and utilize at-home care services when needed.

If your loved one seems resistant, calmly explain the reason for safety precautions. The virus is spread by respiratory droplets from coughing, sneezing, or talking. Masks, social distancing, and frequent hand washing lower the risk of spreading the virus via person-to-person contact. 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 when discussing the virus. Use phrases like, “We’re all in this together.” Assure them that others are concerned for their health and well-being.

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 report your arrival and wait in your car instead of the waiting room. Medical personnel might take patients’ temperatures or require a survey regarding symptoms. Upon returning home, explain that especially after being in public, 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 At-Home Care Services from Visiting Angels Denver to Your Routine

Rely on at-home care services from Visiting Angels Denver to help your older loved one adjust to new routines, activities and safety precautions during the pandemic.

Our caregivers can help your loved one get used to the “new normal” by:

Taking precautions 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 at-home care services in Denver and Wheat Ridge, CO and surrounding areas, call Visiting Angels at 303-990-8148.

Visiting Angels provides personalized at-home care services for seniors throughout Arvada, Aurora, Denver, Glendale, Golden, Lakewood, Wheat Ridge and the surrounding areas of Colorado.