If your loved one is a resident in an assisted living community, you’re probably experiencing even more anxiety about the spread of COVID-19. Not only are seniors especially vulnerable, nursing homes and assisted living communities are seeing high rates of the virus.
Your loved one may also have to be in a more strict quarantine, which can lead to depression. Here are some ways you can help your loved one living in an assisted living community during the coronavirus pandemic.
Help them with isolation
For residents of an assisted living community, frequent visits with loved ones and friends can be a lifeline. During this health crisis, visits are restricted, and even fellow residents can’t mingle, to help prevent the spread of the virus.
You can help your loved one stay connected by ensuring they have a well-functioning smartphone, tablet or computer for video chats with you and the grandkids. You can even help them keep up with their exercise with a virtual walk or workout online.
Keep a regular schedule
We all need something to look forward to during quarantine and making sure that phone calls and video chats are on a regular schedule can help keep your loved one’s spirits up. FaceTime, for example, is a good way to ensure there are no issues as you’ll be able to see your loved one’s facial expressions and demeanor.
Check in with the administration
Keep up with any new regulations, rules and safety plans in place from the administration of the assisted living community. As the pandemic continues, regulations can change frequently. You’ll also want to make sure you know the status of the general health of the community members and what the administration is doing to protect its residents.
Make sure they have all of their supplies
Keep checking in to make sure your loved one has their medications, everything they need in terms of clothing and toiletries, even entertainment and treats, to help them spend their time in quarantine more comfortably.
Make sure all of their legal and medical paperwork is in place
At the very least, your loved one should have a durable power of attorney in place in case they become ill or otherwise incapacitated. You or another designated person should have the legal authority to make decisions about medical treatment and more.
You should also make sure that your loved one has a Health Care Proxy, which appoints an agent to legally make health care decisions on their behalf. They should also have a will and an estate plan in place so there are no questions about what happens to your loved one and their property.
It is so important during this climate to get your estate planning done… now! As of April 27, 2020, Virtual Notarization has been approved in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts making the entire process safe, efficient and easy. People who need a notary to file power of attorney documents, healthcare proxies or an estate plan, along with many other legal business tasks can do so over video conference, giving you the ultimate peace of mind. Your safety is our top priority.
Helping your loved one feel connected, cared for and safe in their assisted living community is important at all times, but it’s especially crucial during this trying time. Help your loved one with visits as they are allowed and by making sure that they are legally protected.