5 Ways to Help Loved Ones While They’re Staying Safe at Home

Many people are feeling anxious during this pandemic, especially seniors with preexisting conditions like lung disease or cancer. According to the CDC, they’re at a higher risk for contracting COVID-19 and developing severe complications. Elderly men and women who live alone may also struggle with being isolated from their family and friends.

But the seniors in your life don’t have to live in loneliness or fear. Here are five things you can do to help loved ones who are staying safe at home.

1. Write them cards or letters, and send pictures.

Handmade cards and handwritten letters are gifts that your loved ones will treasure, especially when you can’t visit them right now. (These are also great for seniors who are hard of hearing and may struggle on the phone.) If you have kids, they can get involved by making cards or coloring pictures for Grandma and Grandpa.

This time can be confusing for people with Alzheimer’s or dementia, who may not understand why their routine has changed or why family can’t visit. But research shows that even those with severe dementia will respond to photos. You can send pictures to seniors with their family and friends, and label photos with names and dates on the back.

2. Help them use technology to stay connected.

Calling or FaceTiming your loved ones regularly can help them feel less isolated and lonely. If your parent or grandparent isn’t sure how to use FaceTime or Zoom, you can walk them through the process over the phone. When you’re chatting with your loved one, keep them engaged by sharing a happy memory you can both reminisce about. Or, if you have kids, they could tell your children a bedtime story over the phone.

You can also help your loved ones access online religious services if they normally attend a church, temple, or mosque. Faith is often a major part of the older generation’s lives, and tuning in to a service may help your parent or grandparent feel connected to their religious community. For adults with hearing difficulties, closed captions can guide them in following along with the service.

3. Ask how they’re feeling (physically and emotionally).

When you’re connecting with your loved ones, check on their physical and mental health. Ask if they’ve had a fever, a cough, or trouble breathing within the last 2-14 days. If they have, tell them to call their doctor. And even if your loved ones are feeling great, encourage them to keep taking precautions like staying home and washing their hands often.

Aside from physical ailments, your parent or grandparent might feel anxious during the pandemic. This stress may lead to symptoms like:

• Changes in sleeping or eating patterns
• Worsening chronic or mental health conditions
• Difficulty sleeping or concentrating
• Headaches or stomachaches
• Feeling lonely, sad, or helpless

Your parent or grandparent can combat these symptoms with safe, socially distant interactions. Simply saying hello to the mail carrier or calling a neighbor will remind your loved ones that they’re not alone during this time. Encourage them to eat three meals a day and get plenty of sleep, too. This will both protect their immune system and help them stay mentally healthy.

4. Create an emergency contact list, and ask about their doctor’s appointments.

Even if your loved ones are healthy, they should have a list of emergency contacts in case they get sick or need anything. Besides your phone number, you should also include contact information for:

• Neighbors and family members
• Their doctor(s)
• Local mental health services
• Their pharmacy
• Their in-home care provider

You can also check with your loved ones’ doctors to see if they offer telemedicine (allowing your parent or grandparent to email or video chat with their specialist or primary care provider). If not, help your loved ones reschedule any non-essential appointments. A Safe-T Home Care staff member can also provide transportation to necessary labs and visits.

5. Make sure your loved ones have food, medicine, soap, and other essentials.

We’re not sure how long this quarantine will last, but you can ensure your loved ones have everything they need while staying safely at home. Make sure they’re stocked up on:

• Food and water
• Toilet paper 
• Soap and disinfectant wipes 
• A 4-week supply of essential medications (Many pharmacies are providing local delivery during this time.)

It may be helpful to have someone assist you with getting essentials to your loved one, especially if you’re sick, at work, or caring for children. A Safe-T Home Care staff member can shop for your loved ones and bring supplies directly to their door.

By taking these steps, you can help your loved ones stay healthy, combat loneliness, and connect with family and friends.

Safe-T Home Care is continuing senior in-home care during this time, so you and your family don’t have to worry about service disruption. If you have any questions about helping loved ones who are staying safe at home, just give us a call at 574-218-0926 or 855-401-SAFE (7233). We’re here for you!

Safe-T Home Care is an in-home care agency in Monticello, Indiana. We provide transportation, personal care, and other services so your loved ones can stay safe and independent at home. For more information, please visit our website or like us on Facebook.