Supporting an elderly person is often challenging, but in these times of angst and uncertainty, supporting an elderly individual belonging to the population at risk to incur a disease with the most severe symptoms, might be even more challenging. Therefore, we wish to offer you a number of tools to cope with the situation in accordance with the different needs you and your caregivers may have. Families are not alike, each family is a whole world of memories, experiences, strengths and needs, so that there isn't a single way or recommendation adapted to all. Although no one knows your elderly relative better than you do, we might able to give you new or more adequate guidelines and principles of action and coping:
1. Normal reaction to "abnormal situation"
In a situation of uncertainty, it is important to legitimate emotions of fear, anxiety, confusion and mood swings. Try to be patient toward the unusual reactions and behaviors of the elderly relative.
2. Keep up to date with the Health Ministry's guideline on a daily basis
See that the elderly person and other members of the family act as much as possible according to the guidelines.
To consult guidelines, click here.
3. Watch fewer news
The media covers events that may increase pressure and anxiety. Keep low quota of news watching, and report them to your elderly relative in a measured and balanced way.
4. Take care of yourself
Under pressure, you need to be a model for your family members but are not supposed to be completely immune.
It is allowed and advisable to let them know to you are concerned too, keep your strengths as much as possible and be indulgent with yourself.
5. Keep in constant touch with the elderly relative
Use digital means such as telephone, WhatsApp or videoconference to keep the contact and support. Besides, encourage other family members and grand-children to call the elderly by those means.
6. Keep a routine as far as possible
We may experience anxiety and confusion. It is therefore important to keep a routine and try to schedule a support and care program for each scenario.
Keep in constant touch with the elderly relative, use digital means such as telephone, WhatsApp or videoconference to keep the contact and support. Besides, encourage other family members and grand-children to call the elderly by those means.
Don't forget the salaried caregivers and check up on them, and on your family members.
Questions , Answers and Information for family caregivers in the wake of the coronavirus