Family gatherings are lots of fun, especially for seniors who may not get to see their extended family often. But whenever family gatherings happen there is the potential for seniors to get sick. Colds and flu, COVID-19, and other illnesses can be passed from person to person at a family gathering. Personal care at home services are a great way for seniors to make sure they maintain good hygiene.
Seniors can still enjoy seeing their family members, hug them, and spend time with them safely. They just need to take a few precautions. One thing that seniors should do is shower immediately after they get home from a family gathering. Seniors who struggle with showering or getting dressed can get help from personal care at home.
Some other things that seniors can do to protect themselves from illness at a family gathering are:
Ask People Who Are Sick Not To Come
Seniors, or whoever is giving the party, should ask anyone who knows they have an illness like the flu or COVID-19 not to attend the event. Remind everyone that no one wants to be around someone that is experiencing an active illness.
Practice Hand Hygiene
Regular handwashing is crucial to prevent the spread of germs anytime a senior is in public or at a gathering. Seniors should wash their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially before eating and after using the restroom or touching commonly shared items. If it’s not possible to wash their hands then seniors should use hand sanitizer.
Seniors Should Not Touch Their Face
Touching the eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands can transfer germs and increase the risk of infection. Seniors should refrain from touching their faces unless their hands are clean.
Bring Personal Utensils
If feasible, seniors can consider bringing their own utensils, cups, and plates to avoid using shared ones. Or they should use paper plates and plastic utensils that can be thrown away. If seniors bring their own dishes and utensils they should be labeled so that no one else uses them.
Limit Food Sharing And Avoid Repeat Trips To The Buffet
Seniors should avoid communal food bowls and shared platters. Instead, they should choose individually packaged or portioned food items if they are available to reduce the risk of contamination.
Choose Outdoor Seating
If possible, seniors should prefer outdoor seating or well-ventilated areas during family parties to reduce the risk of airborne transmission of germs. The person giving the party should make sure there is comfortable outdoor seating for seniors that is easily accessible.
Wear a Mask
Seniors can consider wearing a well-fitted mask, especially if they are unable to maintain physical distancing or are in a crowded setting. Masks can help prevent the spread of respiratory droplets that may contain viruses.
Update Vaccinations
It’s a good idea for seniors to check in with their doctor before the gathering and make sure that all of their vaccinations, including their flu and COVID-19 vaccines, are up to date.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Personal Care at Home Services in Jackson TN please contact the caring staff at Senior Solutions Home Care. (731) 300-2300
Senior Solutions Home Care is a Trusted Home Care Agency serving Jackson, Humboldt, Medina, Milan, Trenton, Brownsville, Madison County, and surrounding areas.
Over the years, we have expanded, providing service in all 95 counties throughout Tennessee, and we now have a growing presence in Georgia.
Senior Solutions is recognized as a top 5% independent agency and a three-time Inc. 5000 honoree in 2018, 2019, and 2020. These types of awards matter to us because they show growth in our goal of eventually touching a million lives. We’re excited to continue that growth and to touch even more families with our commitment to quality care!
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