The New York Times posted an online article on March 24, 2020 with the byline: “All Americans Need to Shelter in Place. The article continues, ...” the worst of the coronavirus pandemic is yet to come.” Based on the reporting we are hearing from government figures and medical specialists, there is a strong possibility this is true. However, many believe the phrase “shelter in place” is being misused. Shelter in Place is defined as: “To seek safety within the building one already occupies or finding a safe location indoors and staying there until you are given an ‘all clear’ or told to evacuate.” Most common situations in which shelter-in-place orders are given is when there is an imminent threat to people’s lives unless they stay exactly where they are.
Recent use of the term, related to the coronavirus, is a bit dubious. People are permitted to get in their cars and drive, to go to grocery stores and pharmacies, to pick up carryout meals or go through restaurant drive throughs. They can ride a bike (not in a group), go for a jog, run on a local track, or stroll in a local park. They can go to the mailbox, greet a neighbor across the street or next door and cookout on balconies and in backyards. Yet, the phrase remains government’s choice – and most of society complies.
With coronavirus affecting seniors, older people and people with pre-existing conditions, caregivers nationwide are facing new challenges. As nursing homes and senior centers close their doors, family members forced to work from home and homeschool – many for the first time, find themselves forced into caregiver roles. This is especially challenging for those whose patients are diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, schizophrenia or a mental illness. Picking up a loved one from a care facility can be frightening. Suddenly you are responsible for their care 24 hours a day, seven days a week void any knowledge or experience.
Here are tips for caregivers – seasoned and new. Begin by notifying immediate and extended family members. Contingency plans must be put in place however they should not be left up to a single family member. Friends, neighbors, co-workers and spiritual leaders should be made aware of your caregiver role. The more people who know what you are going through, the more help and support you will receive – and you’ll have a list of people to contact in case of an emergency.
When moving the patient from a care facility to your home, secure a copy of any medical records; ask about dietary needs, on-site physical therapy, scheduled doctor’s appointments and sleep and mealtime schedules. Major disruptions can lead to a decline – physically and psychologically. Maintaining your patient’s diet, schedule and routine makes for a smooth transition.
Once you arrive home contact the patient’s medical team, the pharmacy (prescriptions will now be delivered to you) and, based on local community requirements, emergency services. If medical equipment is used, ask for guidance on usage, cleaning and inspection. If a hospital bed is required, request one as soon as you are told the patient will be moving off site. Tricky situations include patients who are immobile moved to multi-story homes with bedrooms and bathrooms on upper levels. Stair lifts can be installed in just one day and can be easily removed when no longer needed. Be prepared to make adjustments to your home – the living room might become the patient’s bedroom. The children’s playroom might be turned into a permanent guest room. Because we have no idea how long the pandemic will last, be prepared for long-term in-home care.
Schedules are important. You are responsible for meeting your patients, medical care, personal care, homemaker services and companion care. Ask immediate and extended family to help physically, emotionally and financially. Adjusting quickly might not happen, particularly with patients suffering a mental illness. Remember they are adjusting to you as well as you adjusting to them. They may experience stress or show signs of depression because they are causing you to make major lifestyle changes.
Your patient’s sources of income, mail and legal papers including, Advance Medical Directives, DNR (do-not-resuscitate) HIPAA Authorization Form (Health Information Portability and Accountability), and Power of Attorney should be transferred to you. Laws are very strict about who can receive medical information, be included in conversations with medical professionals and make decisions.
Yes, your life will change, and we are here to help. Transitioning a patient diagnosed with a mental health disorder, or chronic medical disease isn’t easy. Home Helpers Home Care is here 24/7 to provide training, guidance, support and patient care. If you need an hour, a day, a week, or something long term, we can meet your specific needs. You are not alone. Call us to learn more.