How Our Private In-Home Caregivers Help Seniors in Naples, FL and Surrounding Areas Social Distance

Here’s how private in-home caregivers from Visiting Angels Naples can encourage your senior loved one to follow social distancing guidelines

After months of following public health recommendations to reduce the risk of spreading the coronavirus, some people in Collier County, FL are becoming less vigilant about social distancing. This “quarantine fatigue” is becoming a problem, especially for older adults.

Seniors often want to social distance because COVID-19 can be more dangerous to them due to other health complications. But keeping a distance from friends and family can cause seniors to feel lonely, which can negatively impact their mood and overall well-being.

Encouraging an elderly loved one to social distance can be stressful for families and private in-home caregivers who strive to protect seniors from the coronavirus. That’s why at Visiting Angels Naples, we offer families in Collier County suggestions on encouraging senior loved ones to follow social distancing guidelines to stay safe during the pandemic.

Establish a Safety Plan

Set firm limits about which activities are safe for your older loved one and which are not. Consult a physician or do research on the internet to develop a social distancing plan.

For example, a safety plan may include:

• Maintaining six feet of physical separation between seniors and visitors at all times
• Wearing a mask when with visitors, even outdoors
• Washing hands or using hand sanitizer when entering/exiting gatherings or public areas
• Avoiding indoor visits from family or friends; allow outdoor visits only
• Don’t share food or drinks with others

Remember to share your plan with family, friends, neighbors and any private in-home caregivers you hire so that everyone is aware of your loved one’s wishes.

Consider the Social Care Program from Visiting Angels Naples

The Social Care program from Visiting Angels Naples helps seniors use social media, smartphones, emails and texting to connect with loved ones. A social care strategy gives families and friends a way to stay in touch with your loved one while respecting their health and safety boundaries.

Be Honest About Your Concerns

When it comes to protecting your loved one, honesty is the best policy. If family or friends want to visit and you are uncomfortable about the risk of the coronavirus, share your concerns in a respectful, non-judgmental way.

Use statements that begin with “I”.  For example, “I worry that an indoor visit with Grandma may increase her chances of getting sick.” Practice positive, assertive communication. If family and friends care about your loved one, they will understand your concerns.

Suggest Alternatives to In-Person Socializing

When in-person visits are not possible, be creative about connecting via phone calls or social technology such as video chats. Reassure your loved one that their health and happiness are your top priority.

You may feel like the “social distancing police”; however, your safety plan will establish safe socializing boundaries and protect the health and well-being of your loved one.

At Visiting Angels Naples, our private in-home caregivers can help your loved one maintain a healthy routine and assist with running errands in order to prevent illness.

To learn how we can protect your loved one during this unprecedented time, contact our Naples, FL office at 239-561-7600.