After months of distancing, isolating and quarantining from friends and family, can it be safe for older adults to think about going out now?
Regrettably, there is no cut-and-dry answer, and a range of criteria should be taken into consideration to arrive at the absolute best decision for every individual to keep seniors safe. For instance:
- What medical conditions is the older adult encountering?
- How challenging has it been for her or him to be separated from close friends and family?
- Is the incidence rate of the virus subsiding or increasing where you live?
As a family caregiver, the best place to start is sitting down and having a one-on-one discussion with the senior. If for example, your senior loved one is adamantly and strongly set on a certain activity, such as for instance seeing the grandchildren or going on a walk in the neighborhood park, make sure that he or she fully understands the potential risks involved.
Make sure you’re up to date as well on the current news from trusted sources on any new recommendations and/or precautions to keep seniors safe. Consider this information as just one piece of your decision-making process, however, as opposed to an end-all perspective.
Next, broach the subject with the senior’s doctor for an expert opinion and for advice about weighing potential risk factors against the advantages of increased socialization and engagement in the community. You may also want to consult with other loved ones and carefully consider their input as well ahead of making the ultimate plan on how to proceed.
Most of all, take enough time to ensure you are doing what is most suitable for your loved one’s all-around health and wellbeing, rather than making a quick decision that you might later regret. If you’re still uncertain in regards to what to do, it may be best to try to avoid venturing out with the your loved one for the present time and revisit the matter at a later date. And keep in mind that you always have the choice to change your thinking if for any reason you are uncomfortable with the first decision.
Whether both you and your family member are comfortable with the decision to go out and about, or decide to continue staying at home, you can depend on Seniorcorp 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 to keep seniors safe. Give us a call at (757) 640-0557 any time to find out more, or to schedule a complimentary in-home consultation for our senior care services in Portsmouth or the surrounding areas.
