Caregivers help seniors during disasters in many ways. They know that our older loved ones react differently to disasters and tragedies than the rest of us. And the world has been full of tragedies for over a year due to COVID-19.
But it’s not just our older loved ones, constant bleak news reports can be depressing for any of us. Many mental health experts recommend unplugging for a while and focus on happier things like our families. For the most part, social media has been filled with advice about how to talk to children about the pandemic. But what about seniors?
Caregivers Help Seniors During Disasters
By and large, older people are generally more resilient than their younger counterparts. However, older people have their own set of challenges. And isolation is at the top of the list.
When it comes to unsettling news, caregivers help seniors by talking about what’s happening with them. It’s natural to talk about these things and our reactions to them with those closest to us. And people living alone have fewer social connections. This not only deprives them of opportunities to gain comfort, but also there’s no one to rationally discuss the situation with. This is one of the reasons why professional in-home care is so important. We all need adaptive tools to get through confusing or tough times.
Older family members also may be concerned about the their loved ones’ whereabouts.
Is my granddaughter working in the emergency room?
Is the staff protected from COVID-19 infection?
Features like ‘check-in’ on Facebook allow family and friends to confirm their status during a crisis. However, everybody doesn’t use that site or have the required internet access. The caregivers help seniors during these times by finding out information regarding their loved ones. Knowing what’s going on when you’re isolated makes all the difference in the world.
While atrocities and disasters are unsettling for all of us, it’s even more true for elderly people. And especially when their loved ones are not living in the same city.
Disasters provide opportunities for caregivers to learn how to target resources to be able to immediately help their clients. While we’re still experiencing the effects of the pandemic, seniors are much safer with in-home care. But unfortunately, seniors in nursing homes have suffered disproportionately from the effects of COVID-19.
Adults 65 and older account for 16% of the US population. And the unnerving 8 in 10 deaths from COVID-19 has been among people 65 and older. It’s devastating what has happened to our seniors and still happening.
You can make sure your elderly loved one is safe and comfortable with in-home care provided by JB Homecare Referral Agency. Call us today at (916) 489-6941 and schedule an appointment for a free assessment.
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