Covid-19 has been a challenge like no other we have ever seen globally.
Things will get better and we will establish what the experts are calling “the next normal” but in the meantime, we have guidance and much to consider. The HomeCare Advocacy Network in partnership with the Centers for Disease Control wishes for you to understand a number of criteria for home care to take place in the residential setting.
Home care workers fall in the essential worker category and can be relied on in times of crisis. Home care agency leadership in conjunction with state and local health departments have developed guidance for the home care setting. Generally, there are 6 criteria to keep in mind when receiving home care services:
Stability of the client.
Does your loved one desire to stay at home or are they in a position to be able to stay at home. Oftentimes this question and others like it can be worked through at what we call the Care Consultation. The HomeCare Advocacy Network local office can do an in-person or on-line meeting that generally last 45 to 75 minutes where we get to know the family and the senior’s needs. We can help you assess the situation and how to move forward.
HomeCare Advocacy Network Care Advocates are available to care for seniors as much as is feasible for the family or as little as 3 visits 3 times per week. We are happy to work around your schedule.
A separate bedroom where the client can recover is preferred.
Access to resources for food and necessities is critical. Staying as healthy as possible and that includes proper hydration and food resources for your loved one.
Personal Protective Equipment access.
Unlike the early days of 2020 when the world was struggling with the global supply chain for PPE, the situation has greatly improved. One site that is helpful is a site called go2kits.com for your PPE “kit” building for your home and for your loved ones.
If the senior has increased risks for Covid-19, be sure to maintain a safe distance whenever possible and encourage those coming into the home to accept the uniqueness of the time we are living through. Encourage visitors to wear a mask and abide by CDC guidelines for Covid-19.
We are all in this together and this time of bleakness will pass. In the meantime, stay strong and be encouraging to your fellow neighbor, it’s the right thing to do.
