Coronavirus and Caring for the Elderly

Posted on Wednesday March 4, 2020 in Crossroads News

coronavirus elderly

Daily, throughout all news channels, print, and electronic publications, the headlines are addressing this rapidly spreading virus and its impact throughout the world. Its medical term is COVID-19, but most of us know it simply as the “coronavirus.” Currently, the disease and its ultimate outcome are yet to be determined.

Fear and uncertainty are normal reactions to this disease. Even as this blog was written, more headlines confirmed the death of two infected Washington residents along with an outbreak in a local nursing facility. In this small suburb alone, there are six confirmed coronavirus cases with three in critical condition and many other residents beginning to fall ill with undetermined diagnoses. Sadly, this is only one state, and more cases are occurring throughout the world.

Globally, the number of confirmed cases has risen over 89,000, and more cases and deaths are expected. Florida, New York, California, and Rhode Island have all reported new cases, with others reported in Scotland and the Dominican Republic. Major US airline carriers have suspended air travel to China and, as of today, American Airlines and Delta have suspended flights to Italy in an attempt to reduce international transmission of the disease. Foreign travel was initially thought to be the culprit. However, some recent cases have occurred with no known foreign travel or contact with those who have traveled outside the country.

coronavirus symptoms

Putting Coronavirus in Perspective

We all want to ensure we are doing what we can to protect ourselves, our loved ones and — as healthcare professionals — our patients. The coronavirus has brought this to the forefront for many, but the need to prevent the spread of illnesses is not unique to this disease.

To put this current epidemic into perspective, the World Health Organization (WHO) has reported a total of 88,813 cases of the coronavirus with 90% occurring in China as of March 2, 2020. Meanwhile, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that there has been at least 32 million cases of the influenza virus (flu) in the US alone as of Feb. 22, 2020. Additionally, the WHO estimates about 290,000 to 650,000 respiratory deaths worldwide. This undoubtedly shows — pandemic or not —we need to be diligent in using good hygiene and infection control measures in our daily lives.

coronavirus protection

How to Protect Yourself from Coronavirus

The best course for protection from illnesses including the coronavirus is simple and relatively inexpensive: frequent and adequate handwashing. Washing your hands after using the restroom, caring for the ill, changing a diaper, and touching public door handles is necessary throughout the day and especially so before eating.

Use soap and water along with the technique we teach to children, which involves quietly humming or singing “Happy Birthday to You” twice before drying off.

Using alcohol-based hand sanitizing gels is also an acceptable option. Carry a small bottle in your pocket or bag and use it throughout the day when you don’t have access to a sink. And yes, Mom was right. Covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when sneezing is also a good idea. Be sure to dispose of the tissue and immediately wash your hands after.

The US also recommends temporarily avoiding contact with anyone that has traveled outside of the country or who has had contact with those travelers, especially those traveling to and from areas with higher numbers of confirmed cases such as China, Italy, Iran, and South Korea.

Currently, there are mixed reviews of the effectiveness of face masks. Some scientists doubt their effectiveness, but others recommend the use. Healthcare providers should always follow agency policies and procedures regarding infection control, universal precautions, and the use of Protective Personal Equipment (PPE) such as gloves, masks, and gowns.

Using common sense steps can also be helpful. Avoid close contact with anyone that is sick. Clean and disinfect objects and surfaces using regular household cleaning products such as antibacterial wipes. Stay home if you are sick. Don’t try to be tough and ride out the illness by going to work or school as this only spreads an illness and can make your recuperation time longer in some cases.

coronavirus vs flu

What are the Symptoms of the Coronavirus?

The initial symptoms include a mild to severe respiratory illness with fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. It may be difficult at first to differentiate the early symptoms from more common illnesses such as the flu, the common cold, and even pneumonia. While the exact incubation period is still unknown, symptoms may appear anywhere from 2 to 21 days after exposure. If you are experiencing a fever, cough, or shortness of breath, you should call your physician for guidance.

As we monitor the news of this illness, those who are caring for loved ones that are seriously ill, chronically ill, debilitated, elderly, immunosuppressed, and/or terminally ill continue to attempt to lovingly juggle the ever-exhausting day-to-day responsibilities. The coronavirus outbreak in the news does not currently change the ongoing specialized needs of those individuals, but does obviously add an additional layer of stress for the caregivers. However, there is some good news as help is available. Crossroads Hospice and Palliative Care is simply a phone call away.

As each individual is unique, a highly qualified Crossroads healthcare professional can make a home or nursing facility visit to assess the status of an individual and provide options and resources tailored specifically to you and your loved one. We provide care with a focus on assisting you in navigating these ever-changing days ahead. You do not have to face this journey alone.

If you need more information regarding the services offered by Crossroads, contact us at 1-888-564-3405. We are here to help!

DeAnna Looper, RN, CHPN, CHPCA
Chief Compliance Officer