How to Talk to San Gabriel Valley Seniors About COVID-19 Precautions
Covid-19 is presenting a serious public health threat in our communities especial around the hospitals in San Dimas, Glendora, and Covina. Older adults and people with chronic health conditions are at a higher risk of becoming seriously ill if they are infected. The Covid-19 pandemic has caused family caregivers to feel more nervous about their senior loved ones’ health and safety — especially when some seniors are refusing to change their behaviors or take Coronavirus seriously.
However, there are several things family caregivers can do to protect senior loved ones and help them understand why coronavirus is a cause for concern.
Facts About The Elderly and Coronvirus
Before talking to your older loved ones about COVID-19, you should arm yourself with facts and information from reliable sources, such as the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention or state and local health departments.Providing them with information from a news outlet, healthcare provider or community organization is an effective way to boost credibility. You should also correct any misinformation that may be driving their erroneous beliefs or behavior.
Understand Older Adults’ Position About the Coronavirus
To help your older loved ones realize the seriousness of COVID-19, you need to uncover the reasons behind their behavior — and the best way to do this is by asking questions. You might start by asking them what they have heard about COVID-19, what they think about the pandemic, and what they have done to prepare.What you learn might surprise you. For example, a senior who is coping with cognitive decline may not understand or remember information they hear about COVID-19 and forget to follow important safety precautions.
Older adults may incorrectly believe the virus won’t affect them because they are in good health, aren’t THAT old, have “survived worse,” or never get sick. Some older adults may not understand how their refusal to follow public health guidance could contribute to the spread of the virus — or, they could simply be reluctant to take orders from the government or their loved ones.
It’s also vital for family caregivers to remember an older adult’s reason for failing to take COVID-19 seriously could be related to other factors, such as fear of isolation, concern over changing routines, or anxiety over an uncertain situation.
Whatever the cause, learning more about the reasons behind your loved one’s stubbornness can help you develop the best persuasion strategy.
Make Your Case
When making your case, it’s critical to use the right tone and approach. Pressuring, badgering, or talking down to your elderly loved ones could make it less likely they will listen to your advice. Make sure you let them know you aren’t trying to upset them and are only concerned about their health and safety.Make sure you address their specific concerns as much as possible. For example, if your loved ones are concerned about losing touch with family members, you could help them develop a plan to keep in touch and provide them with creative ways to communicate during social distancing. If they are concerned about missing their favorite activities, you could help them research safe alternatives or find new ways to stay active during the coronavirus pandemic.
If they have concerns about being able to take care of themselves or obtain supplies during lockdowns, you could arrange for qualified home care workers to provide essential services during the coronavirus if they need help with daily activities.
You could also mention the steps that you, or someone your loved ones know and respect, have taken to prepare or comply with public health guidelines.
Be Open to Two-Way Communication
No matter how your older loved ones respond, it is essential you avoid harming your relationship. Simply let them know you will be available to help them and answer any future questions they may have.Part of protecting your older loved ones during the COVID-19 pandemic means doing your best to help them understand the seriousness of the situation and teaching them how to keep themselves — and others — safe. Visiting Angels Glendora can help keep your seniors safe while disinfection and following all safety protocols.
If you're interested in more information about how in-home care can help your elderly loved ones,Visiting Angels in Glendora today. We serve throughout the San Gabriel Valley. 131 E Foothill Blvd in Glendora Ca. - Glendora@visitingAngels.com - 626-852-3302