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...........
Any way you can arrange for antibody testing for them? How is testing going in your neck of the woods? And what are their home circumstances? - it makes a difference, whether they're living alone, have small children, have other jobs, etc. etc.
The other has no kids or other clients (plus) but must take public transportation to get here (minus).
I'm wondering if a face shield might be the best idea, instead of a mask? Hmmm.
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
My sister use to bathe mom twice a week. It all stopped when we were quarantined. She works for the post office and handles a lot of stuff. She does not do social distancing. I know this is going to be a long time of waiting. At times I feel over whelmed.
I have another sister who works at walmart. She visits mom through the storm door.
I know she will not put up with me keeping her out for as long as I feel she should stay out. I'm concerned.
I just continue one day at a time praying to get through it all
I guess we all have to do what we feel is good for us both and live with the consequences.
I hope you well and do what is going to help you. I feel sometimes it is putting my health at risk also.
The CDC recommends having good ventilation in her room, so open windows are a plus. I don't know if AC units are helpful.
Good luck!
Hugs 🤗