It’s important to remember that we’re still working our way through COVID-19 – and that seniors are still prone to contracting the virus. By helping our elderly loved ones stay well, we can help them get through the pandemic safely. Here are some tips to get you started:
Accessing Food
If your elderly loved one is isolated, it may be hard for them to access food. Take advantage of shopping hours set aside for older individuals. If you have an elderly neighbor, check on with them to make sure they are getting the food and items they need.
Meeting Nutritional Needs
If your older adult is getting food and supplies they need, are they meeting the daily vitamins and nutrients needed as well? Talk to your family doctor to make sure that your elderly loved one is getting adequate vitamins and supplements each day to keep them healthy.
Increasing Nutrients
Isolated older adults may not know how much nutrition they are supposed to be getting. Try adding more protein to their diet through nuts and cheese to increase their calorie intake.
Preparing Ahead
If you only get to help your older loved one with one shopping trip few and far in between, try planning ahead. Stock up on non-perishable items and pre-prepared/frozen meals.
Social Prescribing & Social Services
If you can help your loved one directly, look into local resources through the town or community that may be able to help. Some services can include emergency food packs and loneliness support.
Meal Delivery Services
Other services that could help your elderly loved one is having a meal delivery service available to them. There are many options out there – such as Blue Apron and Hello Fresh. They can help tailor the nutritional needs of your loved one and make sure they are getting fresh meals.
Reduce Isolation
Some helpful ways to reduce isolation is to use simple tools to keep in touch. Technology such as FaceTime or Skype can help keep your loved ones connected while keeping socially distant.
Follow Trusted Advice
To get the most reliable information regarding the pandemic and your elderly loved ones, you can check resources through the CDC.gov website or your local municipality webpage.
We are all here to help each other get through this pandemic and help older adults keep well. If you have any additional questions or need some assistance through our services, give us a call at (203) 520-0116. We are here to help!
CT Help at Home provides 5-Star Quality Health & Elder Care Services with compassion and warmth. Our service areas are Fairfield and New Haven counties in Connecticut and Westchester County, New York. We also have clients in Florida. We are Licensed, Bonded, and Insured. All of our caregivers are certified Alzheimer’s and Dementia Caregivers.
Contact us today to see how we can help you and your loved ones: (203) 520-0116 or maryann@cthelpathome.com.