Like other home health care providers nationwide, David York Agency has seen an increased demand for its services. Indeed, the COVID-19 crisis has put into sharp focus the advantages of in-home care services. According to a CDC study, the rapid transmission of COVID-19 poses a special challenge for LTCF (long-term care facilities). Why? Asymptomatic or even pre-symptomatic residents can facilitate the transmission of the virus in close quarters. In light of this, our post on home health care and COVID-19 may help you make an important decision regarding your loved one’s care.
But, who is at risk? According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), seniors who live in long-term care facilities face the highest risk of COVID-19.
Seniors at Heightened Risk From COVID-19
- Seniors (aged 65 and older) face an unprecedented threat from COVID-19. In fact, 8 out of 10 COVID-19 deaths reported in the United States comprised individuals from this age group. The chief reason is that seniors often have underlying conditions or comorbidities. Thus, many have immunocompromised systems.
- An existing illness can exert extra stress on the immune system. According to the CDC, seniors with cancer, heart disease, HIV/AIDS, liver disease, or lung disease are especially vulnerable. These conditions can heighten the risk of COVID-19, particularly if not controlled by medication.
- Social distancing may be next to impossible in a long-term care facility. In the United States, more than 3,600 deaths have been linked to outbreaks in these facilities. Meanwhile, a new Kaiser Family Foundation study estimates that the real figure may be above 10,000. Observers say that the lack of PPE (personal protective equipment) and health screening limitations have played a role in the high death counts.
The Distinctive Advantages of In-Home Care
At this point in time, the primary tool against COVID-19 is social distancing. Many states have implemented stay-at-home orders with strict enforcement policies.
Given this, one of the many advantages of home health care is that it not only targets the highest risk population (seniors and those with long-term chronic illnesses), but it also keeps patients in settings that maintains a bit of isolation and facilitates social distancing. Moreover, if the virus continues to overwhelm nursing homes, in-home care may be the best and safest option for seniors.
Meeting the Challenges of COVID-19
With the increasing demand for in-home health care services, agencies like David York stand ready to help.
- For example, David York Agency has taken all necessary precautions to ensure the safety of seniors. At this time, our home health aides are equipped with all the necessary gear to work safely with patients.
- David York Agency has also put in place “best practices” for hygiene that apply to both patients and home care aides. In response to the heightened risk of COVID-19, we have provided additional special training for all home care staff. This training centers on achieving the highest standards of hygiene, leveraging nutrition to protect fragile immune systems, and identifying the earliest symptoms of infection.
- In addition, we regularly monitor the health of all staff; sick employees will be taken off cases and required to quarantine.
- In the home setting, health care is focused entirely on the individual patient. So, we can customize diets based on health requirements. Our aides can also help seniors continue exercise routines, get adequate sleep, and decrease anxiety levels —all highly recommended for supporting fragile immune systems during this critical period.
- To further secure the health of our seniors, the Medicare Home Health Benefit can now provide telehealth services. Thus, our most vulnerable patients will have access to doctors and clinicians while staying safe at home.
David York Home Health Care and COVID-19: Saving Senior Lives
If the above information about home health care and COVID-19 has been useful, check out David York Agency’s blog for more articles about senior care.
David York Agency understands the challenges of caregiving and is willing to provide all the support you need.
If you’d like more information about David York Agency’s qualified, compassionate caregivers, contact us at 718.376.7755. A free phone consultation can help you decide what services might be best. If you’d like to hear more from us, please like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter or LinkedIn.
David York Agency Home Healthcare remains committed to providing personalized care for your loved one. If you have questions about our services, please contact us. We can help you through the difficult times and give you the break you deserve!
