Mom (90, dementia) and I live together and since the quarantine, I've been working from home and suspended the aides. Now it seems I may be working home for a long, long time and the 24/7 with no break is too much. I want to bring the two long-time aides back so I can get some work done and some rest. Their job is mostly companionship, and I'm understandably nervous. What is everyone doing about aides in your home? Do they wear masks all the time? Gloves? Keep a distance? I need your insight and experience. It seems a lot of the intimacy they've shared with mom will be lost with all those barriers, but what to do so everyone is safe AND effective?
Mask , yes if they are going to be closer than the 6 foot recommend distance.
Covering for clothing, yes again if there is going to be personal, bodily contact. (this can happen transferring or guiding someone to a chair or to the bathroom or just walking) ((I suggested in another post to possibly buy a few "scrubs" and have them so a caregiver can change when they come to the house and change before they leave, you can wash the scrubs and they will be clean and dry for the next day))
Screen caregivers before they come in, are they feeling alright, fever, aches, any contact with anyone that has been ill or has tested positive.
You need a break. Your mom needs a break. You need to get work done.
This is a decision you make and you weigh the "Benefit VS Burden" when deciding what is the right thing to do.
No "right or wrong" answer...........
The CDC recommends having good ventilation in her room, so open windows are a plus. I don't know if AC units are helpful.
We have not made any decision to bring them back in yet, I still think it’s very risky as they do deal with so many other clients plus their own personal lives. But in your case if it’s mostly for companionship, they could probably visit with your mom safely while keeping their distance. Hope this helps xo
Good luck!
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