In this time of pandemic, elderly and young people are at high risk of contacting the virus. Reaching the old age, elderly people mostly rely on social connection more than most. With the lockdown and practice of social distancing around the world, elderly people could be feeling more alone than usual.
Elderly people are vulnerable than younger ones because they have chronic conditions that makes them harder to fight off infections, viruses, and diseases because of their aging immune system.
At home, we either have parents or neighbors who are elders. And working as a caregiver, it may be an additional challenge for you in taking care of an elderly in this time of pandemic.
Here are some things you can do as a caregiver to help your elderly patient have a sound mind and body during this pandemic:
Social support
– As a caregiver, you and your elderly patient are always together 24 hours a day. There may be times where your patient get bored in the house and you may ran out of things to talk about. To spice things up, try to slide in handwritten notes to his/her breakfast tray every morning to put a smile on your patient’s face.
Run Errands
– Buying them flowers or something they like occasionally can always bring a smile on their faces and will make them feel appreciated.
Help them stay connected to other loved ones and friends
– Technology brings convenience to everyone nowadays, it can bring you close to someone far away. In this time of pandemic, technology can be a great help to keep your elderly patient connected to their loved ones and friends. This may ease the feel of sadness and can make them feel active and motivated for the next couple of days.
Taking care of an elderly in this time of pandemic can be a great challenge but being a creative and resourceful caregiver can help you brighten up your patient’s day and help them stay physically and mentally healthy.