The response to the pandemic is continuously evolving as we learn more about the virus and the best techniques to address the associated risks. Vaccines are being authorized, rolling out quickly and people are encouraged to get vaccinated for herd immunity. Now everything seems to be normal, and vaccinated people are taking off their masks, thinking they’re fully protected from Covid-19. However, the emergence of variants poses another threat for people of all ages. The healthcare industry and caregivers are left restless with the new outbreak. 

Caregivers have a long-standing commitment to the healthcare needs of their patients. During this global pandemic, caregivers are at the forefront, working non-stop to protect and care for seniors and children alike. But the Covid-19 variants have created new challenges for the healthcare industry.  

As the devastating impacts of the coronavirus continue to unfold, caregivers around the world are creating innovative ways to maintain a safe, stable environment. They are committed and more stronger than ever. But creating a plan for a safe home environment that protects immunocompromised individuals from Covid-related risks can be difficult if you don’t know where to start. Here are steps to help best protect your patients and create a safe home. 

Limit Physical Contact

Physical distancing must be taken seriously, even if you’re vaccinated. Wearing a mask can help but avoiding physical contact is the best action plan to avoid catching the virus. However, it’s inescapable for face-to-face contact, especially when a senior lives with other family members. Similarly, skin-to-skin contact also can transmit the disease from one person to another. The best thing you can do to create a safe home environment is to limit physical contact, and refrain from things such as shaking hands and hugging—for now.

To prioritize the well-being of the person you’re taking care of, limit or set rules for home visitations from outside family members, and especially the unvaccinated. Anytime someone comes into the senior’s home, there’s a risk that they could be bringing the virus and the environment becomes unprotected. Even if they have no symptoms, they could still be contagious and unknowingly spreading the virus. 

Rigorous Cleaning and Disinfection

In One Caregiver’s Journey, a caregiver book by Eleanor Gaccetta highlights the importance of maintaining a clean environment in a senior’s home. Keeping the cleanliness of the senior’s house brings tremendous benefits, including ensuring their safety from harmful bacteria and diseases from entering their system. Now with the risks brought by coronavirus, cleaning and disinfecting is a priority. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found it’s also possible to transmit Covid-19 and other viruses through touch. Like when someone touches a contaminated object then touching their own mouth, nose, or eyes. Additionally, studies have shown that the coronavirus can remain on surfaces for hours and days, depending on the surface. Hence, it’s indispensable to be more vigilant with cleanliness and hygiene. Caregivers must follow stringent disinfection of countertops, toys, doorknobs, bathrooms, and other high-touch objects throughout the day. If the circumstance warrants it, disinfect home using products on the US EPA’s List N (tested for effective elimination of the Covid-19 virus). 

Regular Monitoring

Anyone can get Covid-19, but seniors have a higher chance of getting seriously ill from it. When caring for seniors at home, monitoring their condition regularly is a must. Ideally, this should be at least once a day for any signs, symptoms, or complications. If symptoms of the virus are detected, immediately call your hospital or personal physician to obtain information regarding testing. 

For extra precaution, it’s important to point out red flags from other members of the household. They might have symptoms of the disease, such as lightheadedness, shortness of breath, and in most cases coughing that could possibly threaten the health of the high-risk person you’re taking care of. 

Utilize Gadgets Designed to Combat Covid-19

The pandemic has had a devastating impact on everyone’s lives and multiple  industries. On the other hand, it prompts an outpouring of creativity in other areas. A wealth of new inventions are demonstrating a new way to look after health. For an older person who is less mobile but wants to remain independent, one solution is to utilize gadgets and technologies designed to fight against transmission and exposure of Covid-19. While vaccines are being developed at a record pace, innovative devices are created, such as self-cleaning door handles, phone cleaning devices, Covid monitoring apps, hands-free door openers, and improved masks and ventilators. These assistive technologies reassure you that the person you’re taking care of remains independent but still safe and well in their home. 

These innovative steps to fight the Covid-19 highlight the power of caregivers to support seniors in times of crisis. Caregivers will work overtime to create a safe, stable home environment for the person in their care.