August 13, 2020 by
After months of isolating, quarantining, and distancing from family and friends, stay-at-home orders have been relaxed. However, for senior citizens in particular, is it safe to think about going out? What do you need to consider when thinking about the safety of senior loved ones?
Unfortunately, there is no cut-and-dry answer, and a number of criteria must be taken into account to arrive at the best possible decision in order to maintain the safety of senior loved ones. For instance:
- What health issues is the senior experiencing?
- How challenging has it been for him or her to be isolated from loved ones?
- Is the incidence rate for the virus waning or spiking in your area?
As a family caregiver, the best place to get started is sitting down and having a one-on-one conversation together with the senior. In the event your senior loved one is adamantly and fervently set on a specific activity, such as seeing the grandchildren or going for a walk in the neighborhood park, make certain he or she completely understands the possible risks involved.
Make certain you are up to date as well on the latest news from trusted sources on any new precautions and/or recommendations. Consider this information as only one part of your decision-making process, however, rather than an end-all perspective.
Secondly, broach the subject with the senior’s medical practitioner for an expert opinion and also for help with weighing potential risk factors against the benefits associated with increased socialization and engagement in the community. You might also wish to speak with other members of the family and carefully consider their input as well before making the ultimate decision on precisely how to proceed.
Most importantly, take sufficient time to make certain you’re doing what’s best for your loved one’s overall health and wellbeing, as opposed to making a snap decision that you might later regret. If you’re still uncertain as to what to do, it could be a good idea to try to avoid venturing out with the older adult for the present time and revisit the issue at a later date. And remember that you always have the option to change your mind if for any reason you’re uncomfortable with your first decision.
Whether you and your family member are at ease with the decision to go out and about, or decide to continue staying at home, you can depend on At Home Independent Living to assist with accompanied transportation, companionship, running errands including shopping for groceries, and an assortment of other types of assistance, always in compliance with recommended safety protocols. Contact us at (315) 579-4663 any time for more info about our top-rated home care in Syracuse, NY and the surrounding areas, or to schedule a free of charge in-home consultation. To learn about all of the communities where we offer home care services, please visit our Service Area page.