As mandatory restrictions are put into place to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), GEM is continuing to focus on providing high-quality care. Home-based care for disabled persons, seniors, and adults, are considered essential services during this time of crisis, and we’re still here for you and your home care needs.

Concerns for those in need of caregiving services are completely understandable so rest assured that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines and best practices are being followed so care can continue. Remaining in the home is being recommended for people everywhere to slow the spread of the disease. Professional caregivers have always been trained to take measures to minimize the spread of illnesses and promote safe caregiving. This practice continues and is more important than ever.

As part of CDC recommendations, the following protocols--in addition to existing infection control policies and procedures already in place—are being implemented:

The standard process for GEM is as follows: Through different communication routes, (mobile app, text messaging, email) a caregiver is asked: Are you sick, do you have a fever or cough, have you had close contact with an individual(s) diagnosed or under quarantine for COVID-19? If a caregiver answers “yes” to any of these questions, they are to contact the office immediately and are instructed to contact their physician or local health department for evaluation.

• Caregivers are also instructed to stay at home when sick and must report this to the office when they are feeling ill. Although this is standard policy on illness, it is even more important to minimize the spread of COVID-19.
• Caregivers will be asked if they have a “return to work order” before being assigned back to shifts with clients.

Keeping areas in the home clean and safe has always been a priority for GEM. Additional cleaning protocols for all clients’ homes include:

• Cleaning and wiping down surfaces big and small from countertops and tables to light switches and doorknobs
• Frequent and consistent handwashing while in the home, before coming to the home and after leaving the home
• Continued virtual training on infection control and prevention and housekeeping to all caregivers.

The effects of isolation are felt by millions of people and those ages 65 and older are at increased risk for feelings of loneliness, especially at this time when visitors are restricted even in the home. With increasing “stay at home orders” that are happening all over the country, loneliness, helplessness and boredom are real problems seniors will face more than ever.

Here is what caregivers bring to their clients:

• Ideas to address the loneliness, helplessness and boredom that social distancing causes, by staying active in meaning and purposeful activities, such as philanthropy, spiritual or recreational.
• Keeping people engaged in activities of daily living, such as participating in personal hygiene and grooming each day
• Facilitating connection with friends and family via virtual access

Family caregivers who are concerned about spreading possible germs to an elder loved one can check the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website's tips on keeping yourself and others safe.