After months of isolating, quarantining, and distancing from friends and family, many people are venturing out. Nevertheless, for seniors in particular, is it safe to think about going out?
Regrettably, there is no cut-and-dry answer, and a number of criteria must be considered to come to the very best decision for every individual. For example:
- What health conditions is the older adult experiencing?
- How difficult has it been for him or her to be separated from loved ones?
- Is the incidence rate for the virus subsiding or spiking in your community?
As a family caregiver, the best place to get started is sitting down and having a one-on-one discussion with the older adult. If your senior loved one is unwaveringly and strongly set on a particular activity, such as seeing the grandchildren or going for a walk in the local park, make certain he or she thoroughly understands the possible risks involved.
Make sure you are up to date as well on the current news from trusted sources on any new precautions and/or recommendations. Look at this information as only one piece of your decision-making process, however, rather than an end-all perspective.
Secondly, broach the subject with the older adult’s medical doctor for a professional opinion and for advice about weighing potential risk factors against the benefits associated with increased socialization and engagement in the community. You might also wish to seek advice from other close relatives and carefully consider their input as well ahead of making the final plan on exactly how to proceed.
Above all, take ample time to make sure you are doing what is most beneficial for your loved one’s all around health and wellbeing, rather than making a snap decision that you might later regret. If you are still uncertain about what to do, it might be wise to refrain from heading out with the senior for the present time and revisit the matter at a later date. And keep in mind that you always have the opportunity to change your thinking if for any reason you are uncomfortable with your first decision.
Whether you and your family member are comfortable with the choice to go out and about, or make the decision to continue staying at home, you can count on Generations at Home to help with accompanied transportation, companionship, running errands including shopping for groceries, and a variety of other types of help and support, always in compliance with proper safety protocols. Contact us at 727-940-3414 any time for additional information, or to schedule a free in-home assessment.
