Caring For Older Adults At Home During COVID-19

Family Caregivers are people (fathers, mothers, sisters, brothers, spouses) who provide care for a loved one on a regular basis without financial compensation, many times putting their own health at risk. This care is often the only thing keeping the recipient from a nursing home.

Caregiver stress can impact the physical, emotional, and financial health of caregivers. Below are a few suggestions for caregivers to keep themselves healthy.

Nursing Home Guidance

The risk of serious illness and mortality from COVID-19 is high in the elderly and persons with underlying medical conditions. In order to mitigate the risk of COVID-19 transmission, the Tennessee Department of Health offers information and resources for those living in a nursing home, retirement home, long-term care facility, or assisted-living facility. 

Protecting the physical health of Tennesseans in long-term care facilities has been the top priority for Governor Bill Lee and his administration. However, the precautions taken to ensure their safety has come at the cost of valuable time spent with family and loved ones. To address this concern and enhance the quality of life for residents in long-term care facilities, visitation options have now been expanded and restrictions for resident interactions within facilities have been relaxed. For additional information on nursing facilities, contact the Tennessee long-term care ombudsman at 877-236-0013.

Staying Safe

Older adults remain especially vulnerable to COVID-19. The data indicates that adults over the age of 65 are more likely to have serious complications if they become infected. Those who come into contact with older adults — including family members, friends, and service providers — must remember to follow COVID-19 prevention guidelines:

• Stay Home If Possible
• Wash Your Hands Often
• Stay Six Feet Away From Others
• Wear A Mask
• Clean And Disinfect Frequently Touched Surfaces