Age Safer at Home

 

    Some families are contemplating removing their elderly loved ones from senior living communities as we approach what may be the second wave of COVID-19. 

    It is well documented that risk factors associated with COVID-19 increase with age.  John Hopkins Medicine reports that adults 60 and older, especially those with preexisting medical conditions, in particular heart disease, lung disease, diabetes or cancer, are more likely to have severe – even deadly - coronavirus infection than other age groups.   

    Assisted living and nursing home facilities will be forced to limit or maybe even ban visitation if the COVID-19 numbers continue to rise.  Senior living facilities are undoubtedly doing their best to safeguard at-risk residents and curb outbreaks. 

    But visitation restrictions come with their own set of challenges.  Loneliness has been linked to depression, poor sleep quality and impaired cardiovascular function.  A 2016 study by researchers at Newcastle University showed a correlation between loneliness and a 30 percent increase in stroke and coronary heart disease.  According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the negative effects of social isolation include a 32% increased risk of stroke and a 50% increased risk of dementia.  In short, social isolation has the potential to wreak havoc.

    Still, removing a loved one from a trusted assisted living or nursing home is a difficult decision.  If you choose to bring your senior home, don’t forget to inquire about the process for readmission when you feel it’s safe to return or in the event you find that you are not able to provide adequate care. 

    You may want to consider hiring a home care provider.  Most providers offer an array of services from routine assistance with housekeeping and personal care to specialty care for those with medically complex challenges like dementia or multiple chronic diseases.  Non-medical home care providers are not regulated in Ohio so be sure to screen carefully.  Ask lots of questions and check on-line reviews before choosing a provider. 

    You may also want to consider making some home safety modifications before bringing your loved one home.  For details on how to make your home safer and more accessible for older adults, refer to AARP’s Home Fit Guide online.  The 36-page fully illustrated guide contains all kinds of helpful information including room-by-room instructions on how to make your home age-friendly. 

Here are six easy suggestions:

• Make sure that hallways and staircases are well-lit. 

• Remove tripping hazards from walkways.

• Lay down non-skid mats under rugs.

• Store commonly used items in easy-to-reach cabinets.

• Provide a dining chair with side arms.

• Make sure wires and cords are tucked out of the way.

 

    If you need to venture out while living with an at-risk senior, be sure to follow CDC safety guidelines including social distancing, wearing a mask in public and washing or sanitizing your hands frequently.  Refrain from sharing items with others and limit contact with common surfaces. 

    Long story short, bringing your loved one home will be hard work.  But it will be worthwhile if it means you can help them stay safer at home.