Here at Heidi’s Haven, our number one goal is providing quality care for our residents. This means guaranteeing that they are not only safe and comfortable but also healthy. As COVID-19 continues to spread throughout the world, we remain vigilant that our residents’ health is the ultimate priority. If you or a loved one is currently residing in an assisted living community, we hope that this information can help keep everyone safe. The following are a few health tips to prevent the spread of the virus and keep the whole community safe. Only by working together can we hope to get through these unprecedented times.
Limit Outside Contact
We know how difficult this is, and we hate that we must limit our residents’ freedom, but for the good of the community, it’s better to restrict who has access to the community. As much as everyone wants to have unrestricted access to their family members, we cannot guarantee the health of our residents if an asymptomatic family member accidentally brings the virus into the community. Remember that not everyone has the immunity to fight off a powerful viral infection and, if saving a life means waiting a little longer to see your family, it is worth it.
We can help set up phone calls or video chats with your family, so you do not lose touch completely. Remember that your family still cares for you and will do their best to remain in contact. Once the situation improves, they will be able to come to visit again but, until then, it is best if you tell them to stay home.
Take Care of Your Mental Health
If you are following social distancing guidelines, it may be difficult to get adequate socialization. Studies have shown us that prolonged periods of isolation can do horrible things for our mental health, so it is important, now more than ever, to stay active and engaged as much as possible. This is the perfect time to take up a new hobby. If you always wanted to learn chess, there are plenty of online platforms that can help you get started. Maybe you want to learn French? Learning a new language is exciting, opens you to a new culture, and can help fill the quiet moments of the day.
If you do begin to feel lonely or down, be sure to reach out for help. Ignoring or dismissing your feelings out of shame or embarrassment can lead to worsening symptoms. Mental health is no different than physical health. You wouldn’t continue to walk with a broken leg, so don’t feel that you have to keep dragging yourself through a low spell. Heidi’s Haven is here to listen and help in whatever way we can.
Wash Your Hands and Clean Surfaces
To prevent its spread, it’s important to understand how COVID-19 is transmitted. The virus is carried on droplets of saliva or mucous when someone coughs. If these droplets land on your skin and you ingest them by touching your eyes, mouth, or nose, the virus can enter your body and cause the disease. Therefore, it’s very important to wash your hands regularly. If you are exposed to other people outside the community, wash your hands immediately, and DO NOT touch your face.
While it is uncertain if the virus can survive for long on a non-living surface, if you are worried, consider washing packages or containers brought from outside the community. This includes mail or parcels from your family. Do not assume that just because it came from your family that it is safe. You cannot be certain whether or not a family member has been exposed.
Conclusion
If you have any concerns about the health and safety of a Heidi’s Haven resident, please do not hesitate to contact us. We strive to guarantee the ultimate in care for all of our community members. You can reach out to us at 352-787-3034 or submit your questions through our online support form. We are happy to help in any way and look forward to hearing from you.
As COVID-19 continues to spread around the world, we all should take precautions to slow its transmission. By limiting with whom we come in contact, taking care of our mental health, and regularly cleaning our hands and surfaces, we can fight back against this insidious disease. Here at Heidi’s Haven, we are in it together and can overcome these difficult times through the strength of our community.
Sources:
https://www.enlivant.com/blog/keeping-seniors-safe-during-covid19
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/assisted-living.html
