Home Instead Senior Care – care planning for the next phase

As the country prepares to move from Phase One to Phase Two in the easing of COVID-19 restrictions, many businesses will reopen their doors to the public under new health and safety guidelines.

The reopening of businesses will see more people returning to their place of work and  this will mean those who have been previously caring for older family members may not be in a position to do so anymore.

Steven Tubbritt, Home Instead Senior Care Waterford, said that this could pose a problem for family carers who will now not be in a position to administer the same levels of care to an older relative.

“While it is very much a positive that businesses are reopening in phased stages, for those who have taken on the care of isolating or cocooning relatives over the last few months, it will be an anxious time.”

“The first thing Home Instead Senior Care suggests is drawing up a care plan with other family members and friends. Consider the needs of the older person, what do they need to stay safe and happy in their own homes.”

“While over 70’s can now leave their homes for exercise and fresh air, visits to the shops or pharmacies are still not advised. So firstly, draw up a rota for shopping and prescription pick-ups to ensure they are well stocked with nutritious and non-perishable foodstuffs.”

“Secondly, if you can’t spend as much time with them, perhaps reach out to a neighbour that will be able to call in for a chat, help out in the garden or with any DIY repairs on the exterior of the house.”

Professional care providers can also provide services to seniors to help them maintain their independence by assisting them with activities of daily living such as personal care, meal preparation, laundry, shopping, and light housekeeping.

Home Instead Senior Care has taken a wide range of measures aimed at protecting its clients, staff and CAREGivers, in the face of COVID-19. Measures include;

• Ongoing
• Infection Control Training which significantly reduces the risk of transmission – less than 0.5% of home care recipients have tested positive for Covid-19
• Personal Protective Equipment – all CAREGivers wear gloves, masks and aprons
• Sanitisation – Home Instead sanitises high touch areas such as door handles and utilities
• Mental stimulation – CAREGivers provide boardgames, crosswords and other activities to reduce isolation and loneliness

If you suspect that you or a loved one have COVID-19 call your local GP on the phone to ask for advice. Do not visit their surgery unannounced. You can also call the HSE Helpline on Call save 1850 24 1850 to seek advice & follow their instructions.

If you have any concerns about a senior relative during these challenging and unprecedented times you can call Home Instead Senior Care on 051 333966 or visit www.homeinstead.ie