Keeping Our Seniors Safe During Covid-19

It is well-known that seniors are at dangerously high risk for contracting COVID-19 due to their age and/or underlying conditions (heart disease, autoimmune, respiratory, etc). When infected, symptoms can range from a cough, difficulty breathing, fever, chills, or muscle pains. Recent studies have found the virus to spread from “respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks.” To ensure the safety of our seniors, proper measures must be taken and implemented to keep COVID-19 at bay.

Stay At Home

First and foremost, seniors should refrain from leaving their homes to attend religious services, community centers, or other public places. Visitors should practice social-distancing unless that visitor is a nurse or an assigned caregiver. Additionally if another person is present, both the senior as well as the caregiver should protect themselves by wearing gloves and a mask. To keep seniors from getting lonely or missing their visitors, it would be a great idea to encourage daily video calls to their families and loved ones.

Maintain a Healthy Diet

Eating a healthy and balanced diet is especially important for seniors to prevent the onset of COVID-19. An ideal meal plan should contain 40 percent complex carbohydrates (such as sweet potatoes), 30 percent proteins, and 30 percent healthy fats (such as almonds). Do keep in mind that everyone’s nutritional needs are different, someone with Type 2 Diabetes might require a different meal plan than someone not diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes. Furthermore, it is also beneficial to have the seniors take Vitamin C or eat foods rich in Vitamin C such as oranges. This will ensure that their immune systems remain strong and their bodies can fight off any potential threats.

Keep Germs at Bay

During the COVID-19 Pandemic, proper hygiene must be maintained to avoid getting sick. Seniors should wash their hands often or use a high-percent alcohol-based hand sanitizer, avoid touching their face, and wear a face mask and gloves when in the presence of their nurse or caregiver. At home surfaces should remain clean and sterile through the use of germ-killing household cleaning products. Additionally, when using face masks or face coverings, it is important to wash them frequently or exchange the used one for a new, clean one. Gloves should be disposed of immediately after usage.

Being Entertained

Despite being quarantined at home, there are still many things that seniors can do to be entertained at home. The well-known bingo game is one of them! With the help of the internet, seniors can now play bingo online with their friends and families. Further, it is always a good idea for them to start a new hobby or become more advanced in a skill they already know, such as knitting. Also, the caregiver would do well to suggest some fun activities for the seniors and participate in them as well. This will make the senior more likely to partake in the new activity as it’s often challenging for some to begin new things.

Understanding and Managing Stress in Seniors

April 1, 2025
Aging brings wisdom and cherished experiences, but it can also introduce new stressors. Many people assume that stress is a younger person’s problem, but seniors face unique challenges that can impact their well-being.

Discussing In-Home Care with Your Loved Ones: A Compassionate Approach

By Daisy Sarino • March 28, 2025
As our loved ones age or face health challenges, the topic of in-home care often becomes a necessary conversation. However, discussing this sensitive subject can be emotionally charged, bringing up concerns about independence, finances, and quality of life. Whether you’re approaching this discussion with an aging parent, a spouse, or another family member, it’s important to handle it with empathy, patience, and careful planning. Why In-Home Care? In-home care offers a valuable alternative to assisted living or nursing homes, allowing individuals to receive personalized support while staying in a familiar and comfortable environment. This can range from occasional help with housekeeping and meal preparation to full-time medical assistance. The benefits include: Maintaining Independence – Remaining at home helps individuals retain their daily routines and lifestyle. Personalized Care – Services are tailored to meet specific needs rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. Emotional Comfort – Being in familiar surroundings can reduce stress and anxiety. Family Involvement – Loved ones can stay actively engaged in care decisions. How to Start the Conversation Bringing up in-home care can be difficult, but with the right approach, it can lead to a positive outcome. Here are some tips to ease into the discussion: 1. Choose the Right Time and Setting Find a calm, comfortable setting where everyone can speak openly. Avoid discussing it during stressful moments or family gatherings. 2. Listen to Their Concerns Instead of making demands, ask open-ended questions like: “How are you feeling about managing things at home?” “What tasks are becoming more difficult for you?” “Would it help to have someone assist with certain chores?” Allow them to express their concerns, fears, and preferences. 3. Focus on Their Needs, Not Limitations Approach the conversation from a place of support rather than focusing on what they can’t do. Emphasize how in-home care can enhance their quality of life rather than take away their independence. 4. Provide Information and Options Research different types of in-home care services beforehand so you can present options rather than ultimatums. Be prepared to discuss: Levels of care available (companion care, personal care, skilled nursing) Costs and potential insurance coverage Reputable agencies or providers in your area 5. Involve Other Family Members or Trusted Advisors Sometimes, having another voice in the conversation—such as a sibling, doctor, or close friend—can provide reassurance and additional perspectives. 6. Be Patient and Revisit the Discussion Your loved one may need time to process the idea of in-home care. If they’re resistant at first, don’t force the decision. Revisit the conversation periodically, especially if their needs change. Making the Transition Easier Once they’re open to the idea, involve them in selecting a caregiver and setting up a trial period. Small steps can help ease the transition and make them feel more in control of their care. Final Thoughts Discussing in-home care is a deeply personal and often challenging conversation, but with understanding and open communication, you can ensure your loved one gets the support they need while maintaining their dignity and independence. By focusing on their well-being and offering choices, you can help create a care plan that brings comfort to both them and your family.
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