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Doctor and senior woman wearing facemasks
Seniors & Covid

COVID19 Communication Advice to Aid Hearing Loss Sufferers

by Guest Blogger
written by Guest Blogger

With the pandemic set to continue for the foreseeable future and essential measures such as face masks and social distancing becoming a part of normal life, it’s made everyday activities more complicated for all of us. But for one group in particular the COVID19 prevention measures have caused even more disruption: those affected with hearing loss and deafness.

Lip-reading and increased speaking volume are two methods hearing loss sufferers use to aid their conversational communication; and the new regulations unfortunately impede these greatly. But there are a few helpful tips that can be taken into account when communicating with someone who’s struggling to hear. Hearing loss experts Clear Living have put these tips together into an informational graphic:

 

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Caregiver helping senior woman
Seniors & Covid

As States Re-Open, Visitors to Nursing Homes Increase but Still Well Below Average

by Guest Blogger
written by Guest Blogger

For seniors looking into housing options and nursing homes, some of the most commonly asked questions center around quality of life. Is the staff courteous and friendly? Is it kept clean and is the food good? And of course — can you have visitors anytime?

The very nature of nursing homes is people interacting with one another. Not only do seniors enjoy doing social activities together, some nursing homes are set up as households – small groups of residents living under the same roof with the same staff sharing meals and activities.

But what was once a hallmark of senior living – be it a visit from a family member or friend – is now a risk. As coronavirus deaths began to surge in April, nursing homes across the country instituted policies barring visitors, a sudden blow for the more than one million Americans living in such places.

Our team at SeniorLiving.org decided to examine this difficult reality of not being able to visit loved ones. Industry-leading location-data company X-Mode supplied us with de-identified visit data to nursing homes across the country from a sample of tens of millions of de-identified users so we could study changes in patterns of people visiting nursing homes.

We chose the weekends of March 8th, April 12th, and June 28th to represent visitation patterns prior to the economic shutdown, in the midst of the shutdown, and as the economy has been mostly reopened with social distancing.

The data clearly shows that across the country, people were very serious about limiting their in-person contact with those in nursing homes during the very early stages of the pandemic.

How Did Nursing Home Visits Change?

The first research period, the weekend of March 8th, was before the first lockdowns began. States and cities began putting stay-home orders in place, generally starting in late March, which halted many aspects of daily life.

Most of these restrictions lasted through the end of April, though a handful extended into May. In addition to orders to stay home unless travel was necessary, nursing homes began tightly restricting visitors. For many, that meant cutting off visits entirely.

Comparing the weekends of March 8th and April 12th, our data shows a huge drop in visits to nursing homes nationally, as they fell by more than half (53 percent, to be exact). This total “traffic” to nursing homes was inclusive of staff, vendors and visitors. In every state where adequate data was available, the number of people visiting nursing homes fell between March and April.

Between the weekends of April 12th and June 28th, visits to nursing homes rebounded significantly, although the average number of visitors was still down by 34 percent. By June, states had begun phasing in a return to normal economic function, though there was a patchwork of what was open and what was closed. Our data shows people definitely took advantage of relaxed restrictions to visit nursing homes.

Nursing Home Visits by State

Every state where data was available had a double-digit decline in the number of nursing home visits between March and April. The biggest decline was in Alabama, where visits fell by nearly two-thirds, while Georgia was a close second.

Conversely, all states except California saw nursing home visits rise between April and June. California continued to see visitors decline and had the biggest drop in visits during this period. Overall, between March and June, visits to California nursing homes fell by a total of 71 percent.

 

As the economy reopens and more people are allowed into nursing homes (albeit with stronger protocols), this warrants continued studying, and more importantly, concerted efforts to help seniors connect in meaningful ways with their loved ones.

By Jeff Hoyt, editor-in-chief at SeniorLiving.org

Jeff Hoyt is editor-in-chief at SeniorLiving.org, a comprehensive directory of living options. SeniorLiving’s mission is to help older Americans age with ease.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Seniors & Covid

Seniors Use JayPad to Stay Connected During Covid

by Guest Blogger
written by Guest Blogger

It has been a long summer. I was in San Francisco visiting our daughter in the end of May and I got a call informing me that my husband David had fallen in our house in Maryland and fractured a hip. I was desperate to find a flight back home to be with him. Of course, much of our lives had changed due to the ongoing coronavirus.

At the age of 79, it was too risky for me to fly home when most parts of America were having shortage of face masks at the time. David had an operation and then stayed at a nursing home for rehab with bans on all visitation. After the operation and all the ordeal, David was alone lying in a bed in a single room. This is the first time in our 50 years of marriage that we were apart for more than a month.

By mid-July, our son Jon was allowed to visit David outside a window. Jon would turn on his cell phone and use FaceTime to let me see David. The first time that we saw each other after two months of being apart, we both broke into tears. To show our gratitude for the short visits, Jon brought over cupcakes each time in hope that we would still have a next chance to visit as the coronavirus persisted on.

Staying-at-home in San Francisco at my daughter’s condo, I was haunted by the same loneliness and isolation that was frustrating David. This pandemic has sent many elderly into absolute isolation. Being in the high-risk age group to contract the coronavirus, most elderly and their families are diligent in physical distancing. We have been kept inside facilities and homes alone, sometimes without interacting with a person for days. We have heard horrible stories about elderly dying from the coronavirus alone without having a last chance to see their family.

David was discharged from the facility in early August. Soon enough, we realized that like many elderly, David was confronting the impact of isolation including depression, loss of sleep, and anxiety. He was home alone until I made my way home three weeks ago. During his stay-at-home recovery, we were extremely worried that he might fall again without immediate rescue.

Virtual video calling is the only solution for us during this darkest time. David and I would see each other when Jon visited him. Although David has a tablet, he was never tech-savvy enough to manage video calls. He has trouble finding the buttons to tap, and he never seemed to manage those video conferencing apps that require a password or log in.

On David’s 81st birthday a few weeks ago, when his Adult Day Services center introduced to him the JayPad made by HealthJay Inc, our lives changed for the better.

First of all, David can use the JayPad with no trouble. He talks to the voice command Chatbot to control audio and video calling. His center schedules reminders for his daily therapy and social activities which popup on the JayPad. He just taps a “Join Now” button from activity reminders and he is placed into his virtual group classes! Remember how difficult it was for him to navigate to FaceTime? David tells the JayPad to place a call for him without need to navigate. Magic. It’s just magic. Seeing David play group Bingo with his friends reminded me how much we had missed his laughter.

In addition, for an elderly who has a history with falls, JayPad’s HELP button is a handy function. He can press the button for any help that he needs, linking him instantly to Jon who is enlisted as his care circle member. He chats with our grandkids every night now and joined Baby Suzy’s 2-year old birthday party on video. With JayPad’s virtual programming, we are apart but not alone.

The moment when I got home, I knew that life is never going to be the same again. Our friends are adjusting to the coronavirus new normal. It’s been a long and lonely road. With the help of technology like the JayPad, I started to believe that the pandemic might have fast-tracked elderly to a tech-enriched path.

Content is provided by HealthJay Inc. (www.healthjay.com)

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Doctor and senior man wearing facemasks
Seniors & Covid

Companion Care Fills Care Gaps During COVID-19

by Guest Blogger
written by Guest Blogger

With independent, assisted, and memory care communities continuing policies of highly-structured, and minimal, to no-visitor policies during the COVID-19 pandemic, many families weigh the decision whether to bring mom or dad temporarily home or accept their isolation from loved ones. Both scenarios include unique challenges. Companion care – as an adjunct resource –can help ease anxiety and fill in the care gaps created by the COVID-19 crisis whether they are now at home or in a senior living community.

Georgia-based, companion care company Angel Companions’ executive team made the decision to continue placing caregivers in both private homes and senior living developments. But to do this in the environment of a novel virus meant reviewing best health practices and implementing firm, new procedures.

“COVID-19 has changed the way we do business,” said Angel Companions vice president and general manager Elizabeth Herrington.

New policies extend beyond CDC recommendations. The company now only places caregivers with one client, or screens them for assistance within a single senior community, and one resident, to minimize their contact with multiple medically-fragile populations.

In addition to the caregivers and clients, anyone else in close contact with the client is screened. “We assess any known risk factors, such as their travel to areas with widespread outbreaks or local contact in areas known to have reported cases,” Herrington said. “We also advise our caregivers not to report to work if they are deemed high-risk.

“When this virus subsides,” she continued, “I believe we will continue with many of our new protocols and continue to be more vigilant about our homecare services.”

Herrington noted that she recognizes the numerous factors involved with the decision to bring another person into the home during the uncertainty of a novel virus. “We face similar concerns,” she said, “which is why we have enacted fluid, but firm care guidelines.”

In addition to following the latest recommended procedures from the CDC and their state’s Department of Community Health, Angel Companions seeks input from both clients and caregivers to ensure that everyone feels safe, cared for and connected.

For working families, a companion caregiver will not only help their loved one with their health and hygiene needs, light housekeeping, and meal prep, but caregivers can pick up prescriptions, groceries, and other tasks that will allow them to remain at home and lessen the risk of exposure.

“We are working with our clients and family members to make sure they have everything they need during the pandemic,” Herrington said. “We have been delivering gloves, masks, cleaning supplies, and meals to our clients and their families.

“Not only does one-on-one care in the home provide a better service for your loved one, but in-home care keeps them safe.”

 

Lisa Parks is a marketing and communications consultant, and Alzheimer’s Community Educator who advocates for seniors and people with disabilities. www.imagecomgroup.com

 

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Senior woman with gloves cleaning bathroom indoors at home
Seniors & Covid

Clean Your House The Eco-Friendly Way And Combat Coronavirus

by Guest Blogger
written by Guest Blogger

The coronavirus pandemic has changed the cleaning habits that we have at home. Not only are we washing our hands regularly, but we are also cleaning our homes more. The sale of cleaning products in America have sky-rocketed in the last few months as we all try to slow the spread of the virus and other germs. Cleaning is an important part of the battle, as studies have found that the virus can live on wood for two days, on glass for four days and on plastic for up to seven days. The good news is however, that you don’t need to use heavy chemicals like bleach that can be harmful to the skin, especially for seniors. There are plenty of eco-friendly ways to clean that will still combat the coronavirus effectively.

Old fashioned soap

One of the biggest campaigns in the past few months is to get people to wash their hands regularly. What are we washing our hands with? Good old fashioned soap and water. This in itself is good enough to combat the spread of coronavirus, as washing your hands breaks down the lipids and proteins that are part of the structure of the virus. Soap and even washing up liquid dissolves the lipids, which prevents the coronavirus from binding to our cells. You can use soap and warm water to clean the surfaces and contact points in your house; just make sure that you are regularly changing the cleaning cloths you are using. Choose your favorite eco-friendly soap — even a natural goats milk soap will work.

Using alcohol

After you have cleaned, it is a good idea to wipe down your surfaces with a natural disinfectant. There are a number of eco-friendly brands on the market, such as Eco-Fresh, Zoflora, Ocean Saver and Ecover. Alternatively, it is very easy to make your own disinfectant that is completely non-toxic. Alcohol is a natural disinfectant — it makes the base for hand sanitiser. Surgical spirit, rubbing alcohol or ethanol will do, they all have the same effect. In a spray bottle put equal amounts of alcohol and water. It’s as simple as that. If you want to improve the scent, then you can add a few drops of your favorite essential oil. Lavender and rosemary are obvious choices because they both have antibacterial properties.

Other natural disinfectants

Borax is a natural mineral that is used heavily in the cleaning industry, it not only disinfects but is also extremely effective at reducing mold. In a spray bottle, mix ⅓ cup of Borax with 8 oz of warm water. This can be directly sprayed onto work surfaces and then wiped over. Citric acid is also a powerful natural disinfectant that is used in many commercial products. It is the main component of lemon juice. Mix ⅓ cup of citric acid crystals with 8oz water, or alternatively put the juice of two whole lemons in with the water instead.

You don’t need to use harsh chemicals to prevent the spread of coronavirus. Cleaning your house with eco-friendly natural alternatives is just as effective.

Shop Disinfectants at Senior.com

By Jackie Edwards

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Senior woman against pink background looking straight at camera wearing face mask.
Protection Products

Staying Safe: How Should I Care for My Masks?

by Jeff Dailey
written by Jeff Dailey

Once you’ve chosen the right type of mask and learned about wearing it properly, check out these simple tips for caring for face masks and ensuring you get the best protection possible from them.

Reusing and Cleaning Masks

Depending on the type of mask and its condition, you may be able to clean, store and use it again.

Cloth face masks should be laundered after every wearing. After carefully removing your mask, place it in your washing machine or an enclosed hamper (then wash your hands). Dry your mask in the dryer or by hanging (in sunlight, if possible, see below). If your cloth mask becomes damaged or develops holes or visible stains, discard it.

Disposable masks (dust masks, surgical masks) made of paper are meant to be used once and discarded. However, if you wear one for only a short time and it’s still clean, you may consider wearing it later the same day. Remove the mask carefully (with clean hands, grasping only the loops or ties) and hang it (ideally near a window or in direct sunlight). Make sure it can’t be touched or fall to the ground.

Filtering/respirator masks can’t be cleaned because they have specialized filters that are damaged by chemicals and agitation. To reuse one of these masks, also known as N95 or KN95 masks, use strict clean-hands techniques and store it carefully in a secure place (also in the sun, if you can).

The Power of UV Light

Did you know that the sun can act as a disinfectant? When it comes to drying your cloth mask or airing out a filtering/respirator mask, hanging it in direct sunlight may help sterilize it. However, be aware that only the areas directly exposed to UV rays are affected, and the more time allowed, the better.

Discarding a Mask

When it’s time to dispose of any face mask, think about safety. Remove it with clean hands, place it in an enclosed trash container (not an open wastebasket) and then wash your hands again.

Get More Helpful Information

We’re committed to helping you and your loved ones find the resources you need. Check out all our Pandemic Health Tips articles as well as our latest news and posts.

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Woman Wearing Face Mask Close Up
Protection Products

Staying Safe: How to Wear Your Face Mask

by Jeff Dailey
written by Jeff Dailey

You’ve chosen the mask you need and now you’re ready to wear it. The way you approach the simple task of putting it on, the things you do (and don’t do) while it’s on your face, and how you remove it will affect the level of protection the mask provides.

Technique Matters

No matter what mask you’re using, a few essential rules always apply.

  • Wash your hands and face before putting on your mask. Touch only the loops or ties and then the sides of the mask, if needed. And when it comes to gloves, don’t put them on until after your mask is securely in place.
  • Proper coverage. Slip on your mask, ensuring it covers your nose and mouth, reaching all the way under your chin. It should fit snugly across the bridge of your nose (preferably with a flexible nose strip), resting smoothly against the sides of your face and around your chin without gaps.
  • Hands off! Now that your mask is in place, avoid touching it as much as you can. You don’t want those gloves you’re using to touch surfaces and handle contaminated items to come in contact with your mask. If you must adjust it, grip the sides of your face mask near your ears.
  • Taking off your mask. You may be in a hurry to unmask but pause to wash your hands first! Once again, reach for the loops or ties and carefully remove the mask.

 

Learn More and Watch a Mask Demonstration

Watch this video to see how to properly put on and wear KN95 respirator filtration masks plus when to use different types of masks. Also read “Staying Safe: How Should I Care for My Masks?” or catch up on the first article in this series, “Staying Safe: Which Mask Should You Choose?”.

 

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Three different protection face masks. Coronavirus prevention.
Protection Products

Staying Safe: Which Mask Should You Choose?

by Jeff Dailey
written by Jeff Dailey

It’s part of our new normal: Face masks, along with social distancing, are recommended for anyone leaving their home. In some places, you’re now required to wear a mask anytime you go out in public.

Three Main Mask Types

Understanding their characteristics is the key to selecting the right mask before you venture out.

Handmade or do-it-yourself masks may be created from almost any cloth, from bandanas, scarves, handkerchiefs to cut-up t-shirts. Tightly woven fabrics are best. Simply fold your material into layers and secure it behind your ears with hair elastics. If you have a sewing machine, find simple patterns online.

Disposable masks, commonly referred to as dusk masks or surgical masks, are made of paper with elastic bands or ties. Some include a nose piece that bends to provide a more secure fit. These are meant for one-time use.

Filtering/respirator masks can provide a higher level of protection from exposure to infectious illness. N95 and KN95 masks get their name from their ability to block at least 95% of particles in FDA tests.

How to Choose

Just like other healthcare items, each face mask has a specific purpose and use.

Are you a senior, a caregiver, or someone at risk? If so, you want a mask designed to help guard you against becoming ill.

  • Select a disposable mask with a flexible nose strip for a close fit. Worn properly, this mask will filter the air coming into your nose and mouth plus reduce the exposure of your respiration to others. It’s important to note that disposable masks should not be re-used.
  • Or choose a filtering/respirator mask which provides more protection. These products are often certified by the FDA or other official agency. And they may be re-used if cared for properly.

 

Are you mostly concerned with protecting yourself and others in social distancing situations?

  • A disposable mask can be a convenient choice; some offer the reassurance of FDA registration.
  • DIY fabric masks are also acceptable for basic protection. Be sure the mask covers your face snugly from above the nose to below the chin, and that you wear a fresh mask each time.

More About Staying Safe

Get more details on the important differences between surgical masks and filtering/respirator masks. Then read “How to Wear Your Face Mask” and “How Should I Care for My Masks?” for little-known facts about how to safely put them on, take them off and maintain your face masks.

 

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