COVID-19 - Deconfinement and seniors: what to expect
30 April 2020
30 April 2020
The Quebec government announced this week its deconfinement plan for schools and key businesses. What does this mean for seniors and their caregivers? “Caution” remains the word of order.
While the general population undertakes a slow and progressive deconfinement, senior citizens will have to wait a bit longer. Let us remember that at-risk populations will remain vulnerable during this period due to the increased risk of transmission in the community.
If your loved one does not live with you, it will be important more than ever to follow health guidelines. Whenever possible, the two-meter physical distancing will remain in effect and washing your hands before and after visits will be strongly encouraged.
It will also be strongly advised to wear a face mask during your visits, not to protect yourself from the virus (although wearing it reduces your risk of getting infected), but rather to avoid infecting your loved one. Remember that you could always be carrying the virus, even if you don't have any symptoms.
To learn how to use a face covering or a mask, you can watch this video.
If you live with a senior person and must leave home to go to work, it will be of capital importance to adhere to strict basic hygiene rules... or even a little more.
It won’t be easy, but you'll need to enforce the 2-meter social distancing rule, designate a dedicated space to leave items that travel between your home and your workplace (shoes, handbag, coat, etc.) and, of course, adhere to frequent hand hygiene and change of clothes.
It will also be strongly advised to wear a face mask when returning home from work, to avoid infecting your loved one.
If you experience symptoms that may be related to COVID-19, you should stay at home and find someone who can take over with your loved one.
This may come from someone around you (that you presume was not a carrier of COVID-19) or resources in your community. We also invite you to reach out to the Caregiver Support service. Our counsellors can help you find solutions that could help you through this difficult time. The service is available every day from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
By phone: 1 855 852-7784
By email: info-aidant@lappui.org
If you are worried about your own state of health, consult the Government of Quebec self-care guide, or call 1 877 644-4545 or 811.
We encourage you to keep contact with your loved one, especially if their containment period continues. Staying emotionally connected with your loved one can be reassuring and contributes to good mental health. Technology can help you with virtual options, such as text messaging, video calls, virtual games or even manual activities such as indoor gardening.
Need to talk?
Contact our Caregiver Support Helpline for counselling, information and referrals.
Every day from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Free of charge.
