How You Can Care For High-Risk Loved Ones In The Pandemic
The pandemic is difficult for high-risk people. If you know anyone who has a condition, you can help them in many ways to avoid contracting the virus.
Everyone’s been negatively impacted by the pandemic in one way or another. A lot of people lost their jobs, access to recreational activities, and contact with other people. Big companies suffered losses, and hopeful professionals had to redesign their career strategy in the new normal.
Within this crowd are high-risk individuals whose lives are further endangered by the outbreak. They’re the ones with the most limited movement and activity in society, which is why it’s everybody’s obligation to help them as much as they can.;
If you have family or friends suffering from conditions that make them high-risk, there are practical steps you can take to care of them during the pandemic.
Run Errands For Them
Since social contact is the primary means of infection, reducing the need for them to leave the house is one of the biggest help you can offer. Run errands for them regularly, and prioritize the essential ones like grocery shopping.
The two of you can talk about how you can efficiently squeeze this into your schedule. Should you buy two-weeks’ worth of groceries in one go? What kinds of medicine do they need to stock up on? Is there any house repair they need that you can address yourself?
There’s a considerable number of infected people who show no symptoms, so it’s safer for them to interact with relatives and friends who can be fully accountable for their health and sanitation before each interaction.
Doing this not only helps them manage their material needs but also improves their mental and emotional state. It’s more stressful for them to go outside knowing the repercussions of contracting the virus. The less stress they incur, the better they’ll be able to focus on remote work and other daily activities.
Go To Medical Appointments Together
This is a critical help for high-risk individuals, especially if you can take them around Utah in your car. Apart from sanitation purposes, going to medical appointments together will give them the emotional support they need. Does your friend or loved one have thyroid problems? The muscle weakness, depression, and fatigue that usually comes with this kind of problem necessitate assistance when getting treatments like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis treatment. Salt Lake City is a busy place, and commuting is a big no-no if they’re suffering from an autoimmune disorder.
It also benefits them to have someone else hear their diagnosis and the doctor’s recommendation. Depending on the treatment they’re getting, they could be too emotionally and physically taxed to be receptive. You can be the one to keep the prescriptions and take note of the doctor’s reminders so you can remind your friend or loved one later.
Another advantage of going to medical appointments with them is that you get a clearer picture of their condition. People suffering from health issues are often misunderstood by the people around them. The better you understand how life is like for them, the better you’ll be able to offer your support.
Alleviate Their Isolation
High-risk individuals are more prone to quarantine-induced depression and feelings of isolation. While others have resumed their social gatherings, they’re likely limited to virtual meet-ups and events. After a while, staying stuck in the same place for extended periods start to bog down the mind.
Change up their social interaction by creating a safe space for personal gatherings. Make sure that whoever will come along has tested negative for the virus and practice good hygiene. Sanitize your meeting space beforehand and practice physical distancing. Wear masks at all times and make sanitation products available.
Since food is a must, make sure that you’re not sharing anything, from the food itself to the utensils. Even with these health protocols in place, your high-risk friends and loved ones will still be happier seeing others in person.
Make A Difference
These may seem like simple acts of kindnesses, but their effects are tremendous. High-risk individuals already suffer so much even before the outbreak happened. With your help and generosity, they’ll be better able to navigate their lives despite the added hazards to their health.