At Seniors Helping Seniors, the safety and well being of our clients and caregivers is our top priority. During these challenging times of COVID-19, we have adjusted our procedures and protocols to allow for continued meaningful engagement between clients and caregivers. These adjustments include:
For Caregivers:
- Caregivers have been educated on COVID-19 signs and symptoms, to ensure they are not only recognizing potential early symptoms of the virus for themselves, but their client(s) as well
- Before each shift begins, caregivers are advised to contact Seniors Helping Seniors immediately if they and/or their client are experiencing any fever, cough or flu like symptoms
- All Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is provided to caregivers on an ongoing basis. Depending upon the situation, this can include:
- KN95 masks
- Surgical masks
- Cloth masks
- Face shields
- Gowns
- Shoe Coverings
- Gloves
- Hand Sanitizer
- A concerted effort is made when staffing caregivers with clients to limit the number of clients that they visit to help prevent unintentional exposure
- The vast majority of our caregiving staff (approximately 95%) have their own vehicle which they use to travel to/from a client’s residence. If we are aware of a caregiver traveling to/from a client’s residence via public transportation, we offer a Uber/Lyft to reduce contact risk
For Clients:
- Upon conducting a client assessment, screening questions are asked to the client to gauge both the client’s and anyone in their household’s potential risk of exposure to the virus
- Client and other household members are asked to wear a mask when social distancing is not possible in the home
- We understand that some of our clients, due to cognitive impairment or other health factors, are unable to wear a mask
- When taking a client out of their home:
- If on a walk, a mask must be worn by both caregiver and client
- If traveling via car, masks must be worn, and windows must be open to allow for cross ventilation, whenever possible
- When visiting any establishment, masks must be worn (except when eating), hands must be frequently sanitized, and social distancing must be maintained at all times
*For Clients in a senior living facility, Seniors Helping Seniors adheres to the respective facilities COVID-19 protocols and procedures*