Just because there is a global pandemic occurring, doesn’t mean life stops happening.
That includes the important need for good senior care.
When you realize that you or your loved one requires care and assistance, it’s time to make some decisions you haven’t been faced with before. Covid-19 has created new restrictions for all of us. It’s important to remember that this virus means new factors to consider that you may not be aware of within senior care as well. Care facilities have become very strict with safety standards, and in-home care, while still careful, is proving to be the best route for assisted care.
You will have a lot of questions, and we know it can be confusing. We are here to support you and make sure you have the answers you need. Call us at 480-586-3790.
Covid-19, regardless of spikes or decreases in certain areas, means new rules and regulations for care facilities and in-home care services. Below is a clear outline of what each option offers so you are well informed and can make the best decision for you or your family member.
Care facilities
Unfortunately, new pandemic standards and guidelines for senior care facilities, while for the safety of the seniors can be very unpleasant. And though we are not here to scare you away from these facilities, you need to know how you or your senior will be living in order to make an informed decision.
New safety standards in senior care facilities mandate that:
- Visitors are not allowed.
Care facilities feel it is best for their residents to not have visitors out of concern for the spread of Covid-19. While that may make sense, there are many downsides. It’s uplifting and comforting for the seniors to have visitors, and, for loved ones to be able to lay eyes on them and be ensured they are receiving the care and compassion they need. With these new rules in place, it is harder to monitor our loved ones in an in-care facility. The only things to go by are phone calls and updates given over the phone by staff. - Social distancing is required within the facility itself.
With visitation restricted one would think seniors in care would be able to move freely as they can through an in-care facility. However, this is not the case. Seniors are ordered to stay in their rooms, which eliminates the social contact they were able to have before. For instance, Bingo games are played from their doorways. - Covid-19 still spreads faster in senior care facilities.
Even with extra safety standards in place, there are frequent Covid-19 outbreaks, which spread at a faster rate in a facility because there are more people working and living there. - Many seniors living within care facilities are feeling depressed.
It’s no surprise that mental health needs have increased due to the pandemic. We may not realize it but those rates are also increasing for seniors who live in these in care facilities because of the social limitations in place for their safety, which can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation. It’s a catch 22 for now.
These safety standards change the face of in-care facilities. We hope that as vaccines are created and available that visitors will be allowed again and things slowly begin to return to a more social atmosphere.
In-home care
Having a caregiver in your home has always been the most beneficial care option for seniors. If you or your loved one can remain within the home, it has proven to be the best alternative, especially now. While pandemic precautions are still mandated for home care services, they are far less stringent.
- In-home care reduces the spread of Covid-19.
In-home care keeps our seniors safer. Although stay at home restrictions have been lifted in most areas, the virus continues to be an active pandemic. When seniors are able to receive the care they require in the comfort of their own home, it minimizes contact with others and eliminates unnecessary exposure. - An in-home caregiver makes it easier on you – physically and mentally.
Having an in-home caregiver makes life easier because you or your loved one are more supported at home than anywhere else. Our caregivers know how disconcerting it is to find more care is needed, especially with the additional factors Covid-19 adds. They know how to support seniors in this transition with true kindness, compassion and up-to-date healthcare skills.- Physically – Seniors staying in the comfort of their own home is easier on them and can result in better overall wellness. There is a familiarity that brings ease in moving around their surroundings. With in-home care, there are fewer chances of falling. There is less stress staying home, and being able to relax a bit is best for your health.
- Mentally – Staying home brings ease of mind to seniors and promotes confidence and well being. There is a good deal of anxiety that occurs when we realize we need senior care, especially for the one receiving it. The idea of moving into a facility can be downright scary. Staying home in a known environment leads to more mental wellness because there is by far more control and independence over you or your loved one’s life.
- Healthcare needs can be addressed at home.
Our caregivers help eliminate the need to go to the hospital by giving outstanding in-home care services. They can assess if you or your loved one needs more medical attention, or if they are able to keep supporting needs at home. Data proves that in-home care reduces hospital visits that may expose one to other infections as well.
We know there is a lot of information to consider, especially now. Speaking with someone is always the best way to get the support you need and to get informed. Let us help you answer any questions you have. We are here talk, and to provide respectful, compassionate in-home care to ensure you are getting the most out of life. Call us today at 480-586-3790 about the options we can provide you.
