While 2020 got off to a relatively normal start, the coronavirus outbreak soon spread across the world, and to date, it has infected more than 74 million people globally.
With winter now upon us, it’s more important than ever to take care of your health and to protect your vulnerable loved ones, especially if you plan to visit them over the Christmas holidays.
Whether you’re at high risk of getting seriously ill from COVID-19, or you are concerned about passing the virus on to your vulnerable loved ones, here are some ways you can stay healthy and safe this winter.
Wash your hands
When out and about, there are lots of frequently touched surfaces that you may put your hands on. Door handles in particular harbour tons of germs and bacteria that make it the perfect breeding ground for the coronavirus. Therefore, getting into the routine of washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water is key for reducing the risk of transmission. If you’re not able to access a public restroom, make sure you carry a travel size bottle of hand sanitiser with you at all times. Before seeing your vulnerable loved ones make sure you clean your hands.
Maintain social distancing
Whether you’re on public transport, going into a store, or in a crowded area, you must maintain social distancing and adhere to the guidelines set out by the government, especially before meeting your vulnerable loved one. While it can be hard to do so in public spaces, as long as you’re wearing a face covering and aren’t stacked up against one another, the risk of you getting the coronavirus and passing it on to your elderly or vulnerable relative is reduced. All essential businesses like convenience stores will have social distancing guidelines in place, alongside sneeze guards that are designed to protect both customers and staff from contracting COVID-19. When meeting your friend or family member who is high-risk, make sure you maintain a distance. For extremely high-risk people it may be recommended that you self-isolate for a number of days before visiting them. Again, try not to visit those who are at risk unless essential.
Remember, among the high-risk people is the elderly. One helpful tip to ensure your senior loved one is safe is to seek support such as senior living services. This way, your loved one’s exposure to covid-19 will significantly reduce. Sadly, the pandemic will make it nearly impossible for you to always be there for your loved one. It’s therefore essential to get him/her assisted living for a comfortable, easy life.
Also, assisted living has professionals who’ll take cautionary measures to minimize the risk of infections and other health issues. Obviously, you wish your loved one to have a peaceful mind mainly because of the pandemic’s havoc. You can accomplish this by employing the services of an assisted living.
Additionally, your senior member may need medical attention, and judging by the current situation, most doctors are at the frontline in fighting covid-19. Consequently, your loved one may have a challenging time getting to the hospital and receiving medical attention. On the bright side, assisted living has readily available medical and personal care.
As a bonus, your loved one will have a great time having his/her needs met with ease. The exciting facilities available in assisted living are one your loved one will enjoy and appreciate. Ultimately, this will help you maintain your social distance knowing your loved one is in safe hands.
Avoid touching your face
In a normal day, you will be surprised at how many times you touch your face without even realising it. Whether it’s scratching your nose or rubbing your eye, your risk of catching a respiratory infection is maximised. One of the best ways to avoid touching your face is by keeping your hands sanitised or using a scented hand soap that will remind you to stop doing so.
Your vulnerable loved one’s health and wellbeing should be your number one concern this winter. As temperatures start to fall, it’s said that the coronavirus spread may increase over the colder months, which is why you must take note of the above and put the tips into action to help the vulnerable safe and healthy.
These are great reminders. While we’re in a much better position than we were last year, we don’t know what need there will be for boosters yet, I don’t think, and it’s worth trying to avoid picking up the usual winter infections, too.