Wednesday, 10 June 2020

Coronavirus: Your Frequently Asked Questions

As we all move through the pandemic brought about by COVID-19, there are so many questions on our minds – especially when it comes to safeguarding our elderly loved ones. Below, we highlight some of our clients' most frequently asked questions and provide you with thorough answers that we hope will offer you some semblance of peace of mind going forward.

What are the symptoms of COVID-19?

Symptoms vary from case to case, but generally, you should be on the lookout for a fever, a persistent cough, and shortness of breath. Another widespread symptom is a sudden loss of taste and smell. Other possible symptoms include sore muscles, an inflamed throat, unexplained fatigue, headaches, and an upset stomach.

Is there an incubation period?

Most people who have been exposed to the virus only start showing symptoms between two and 14 days thereafter – and some do not develop any symptoms at all. However, symptoms or no symptoms, it is still possible for the infected person to spread the virus on to others.

When should my senior relative see a doctor?

Elderly individuals suspected of having the virus should see a doctor immediately. This is because they are a lot more vulnerable to the effects of COVID-19, usually due to the existence of other health conditions, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s Disease, etc. As we age, our immune systems grow weaker which makes it harder to fight off infections diseases such as coronavirus.

If you, as a caregiver, suspect that you might have been infected, distance yourself from your senior relative with immediate effect, calling on another friend or family member to step in while you visit a doctor and get tested.

How can I reduce the chances of my senior loved one contracting the virus?

You need to take all of the relevant precautions as recommended by the CDC and the WHO. Keep your loved one at home, avoiding contact as much as possible with others and employ safe hygiene measures. In short, wash your hands frequently with soap and water, stay home as much as possible, wear a mask should you need to venture out for essential goods, and keep a distance of at least 2m from yourself and others.

In the instance that you need to go to work each day, it can be beneficial and safer to hire senior home care services or a live-in companion for the elderly to take over the bulk of the caregiving duties, thus reducing contact between you and your loved one as much as possible.

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