CARING FOR OLDER ADULTS AND OTHERS AT-RISK DURING A PANDEMIC
We are all adjusting to a temporary new normal during the worldwide pandemic due to the novel coronavirus, COVID-19. For older adults and others at risk, this is an exceptionally difficult time. Many live with pre-existing health issues, financial constraints, unstable housing, and distance from family. Add in fear, isolation, and perhaps unfamiliarity with the technology that is keeping many connected, and it’s a desperate situation.
Quite simply, we can help those in need, and we must. Now is the time to evaluate our priorities and make changes to support those around us. Where do we start? I suggest we all dig deep into our past to remember how we got through our own challenges. My guess is there are common themes and words that repeat: calm, research, inform, educate, entertain, collaborate, support, appreciate, ask, and listen.
First, during a health crisis, it is imperative that we remain calm and informed with accurate information in order to alleviate the fear that can spread along with the virus. The sheer volume of information available online and in the news can be overwhelming. It can be difficult to separate fact from fiction. And often, in a situation that’s constantly changing, the first pieces of information that surface may not be correct.
It is also essential that we work to prevent the most vulnerable from feeling isolated and alone. While the current situation presents unique obstacles such as the inability to be physically present with someone we care about, the potential lack of technology, or training on the technology, this is an opportunity to help one another, and for cross-generational mentoring.
We are exploring ways to do this, and have engaged with Partners to start this process by introducing a #Teach1 initiative, a “Pay it Forward” methodology for social interaction. The goal is to #Teach1 person (or more) how to use video conferencing technology in order to help them feel socially connected during this time of crisis, and then they can #Teach1, producing an exponential silver lining.
The key piece of information for you to remember is this: You are not alone. While the current recommendation is for “social distancing and the 3 Cs (Clean, Cover, Contain) to stay healthy and protect one another,” there are ways to utilize this time to care for and teach one another in an effort to bring something positive out of a pandemic.
We have compiled some initial ideas and suggestions for ways to help during this time. Certainly, many more exist, but this is a starting point for those who may feel inundated with information. Please share your tips with us and we will incorporate them as much as we can.
INFORM: Types of sites, to help locate concise information:
World Health Organization (WHO) - Worldwide
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) - In the United States
Lake County Health Department and Community Health Center - In Lake County, IL Example of a regional site, Search for your own Local County Health Center to stay informed on what is happening near you.
Society of St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry - In Lake County, IL Example of a regional site, Search for your own Local Food Pantry or Social Services site if you are in need of basic necessities.
Lake Zurich Chamber of Commerce Local Restaurants - In Lake Zurich, IL Example of a regional site giving a list of what restaurants in the area have curb-side or delivery service, Search for your own Local Chamber of Commerce if you would like to know what local businesses are doing near you.
COVID-19 Workplace Impact and Employer FAQs: The Families First Coronavirus Response Act - The Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA; "The Act") was signed into law on March 18, 2020, and generally requires employers with fewer than 500 employees to provide a certain amount of paid sick and paid leave to employees affected by COVID-19, and provides affected employers with a corresponding employment tax credit. In addition, the FFRCA temporarily expands Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) requirements to offer protected leave related to the coronavirus.
Pieces of I - Has initiated the #Teach1 project, and is compiling tips on cross-generational mentoring opportunities and suggestions.
EDUCATE: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Basic preventive actions to prevent the spread of illness
Clean
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and objects.
Cover
Cover cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
If no tissue is available, cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve, not your hands.
Contain
Stay home when you are sick, except to get medical care.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
"Stay At Home Order”—What That Means:
State of Illinois: Stay at home FAQs:
The order is in place to protect the health of people in our community and the health care system. While residents can still go to grocery stores, put gas in their cars, take walks outside, make pharmacy runs, visit healthcare facilities, and get food for take-out and delivery, it is important for people to stay home and to cease all non-essential personal and business activities.
There is an opportunity to learn from one another across generations. By harnessing the experience and knowledge of all ages, we will be in a better position to adapt to our circumstances, and enhance our world.
While the initial need during a crisis is to inform and reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness, this is also a time we can connect and learn things from and about each other, that we didn’t think we had time to do before due to the busyness of work, school, or life in general.
We will continue to present opportunities, training, and suggestions over the next few weeks to enhance this time. Some initial thoughts:
#Teach1: Teach someone how to use video-conferencing technology
Websites for education and entertainment
Questions to ask another generation, to learn something new from each other