We’re living through unprecedented times. The rapid spread of Covid-19 on an international scale means that many of our lives have hugely changed over the past couple of months.
We’re being encouraged to socially distance and shelter in place rules, which has confined many to stay inside their homes. Now, this can feel difficult for anybody. But if you have a loved one who is particularly vulnerable – perhaps elderly or who has an underlying health condition – you may be even more concerned than the average person. After all, you want to make sure that they’re getting by and that they have all the care and support they need, while maintaining your distance to reduce your chances of risking their health.
This can be difficult territory to negotiate, especially seeing as this virus has taken hold of the world so quickly, giving few of us a chance to fully prepare. But not to worry. There are ways to monitor and help your loved ones. Here are a few steps that you might want to consider.
Helping With Their Food Shopping and Prescriptions
Of course, everyone needs food and medication. These are essentials. But people who are old or vulnerable are being asked to not leave their homes at all. Now, you can help in this situation. If you are fit and well, you can go to the store on their behalf to collect any food, beverages, toiletries, cleaning products and other essentials that they may need. You can also collect their prescriptions on their behalf if they require any medication or treatment. Encourage them to come up with a list of everything they need and to send it over to you. When you drop the items off to them, leave them on their doorstep. Then walk away or get back in your vehicle before they open the door and collect them. Also, encourage them to wash down any washable items before using them.
Monitoring Their Condition in Hospitals or Care Homes
If your loved one is in a hospital or care home, this can be an extremely difficult time. After all, many places are no longer allowing visitors in order to reduce the spread of the virus and maintain better levels of safety in these healthcare settings. But this doesn’t mean you can’t keep in touch and check in on how they’re doing. If they have a phone and are in good enough condition, you can keep in touch this way. Alternatively, you can occasionally ring the healthcare setting they are in for updates. You may need to take action if they aren’t being cared for properly, filing formal complaints or reaching out to relevant legal professionals, such as bed sore injury claim specialist, Jonathan Rosenfeld.
Keeping In Touch
Loneliness can easily take hold in times like this. Especially for those who are isolated. Make sure to keep in touch with your loved ones as much as possible. Texting, phone calls, social media and video calls can all help with mental health!
These are just a few suggestions, but they can make all the difference for both yourself (putting your mind at ease) and your loved ones (keeping them company and ensuring that they aren’t going without).