COVID – An Essential List of Must-Have Supplies for Periods of Self-Isolation

Stay-at-Home orders are in place for several states across the nation. While some states are still holding out, the majority of Americans are supposed to stay home. Only essential workers should leave their homes.

If your parents are retired, they shouldn’t be leaving home. They should be avoiding social events, trips to public spaces like stores and pharmacies, and not visiting family members in other homes. It’s hard, but it’s important. To make self-isolation work effectively, get them stopped up with these essential supplies.

Face Masks

Senior Care Alexandria, MN: Periods of Self-Isolation

Medical face masks are not easy to find. They’re also meant to be left to the medical professionals on the front line. The CDC guidelines have shifted and now recommend that anyone who goes outside for a walk or to a grocery store or pharmacy should cover their nose and mouth.

Homemade face masks seem to be important now. If your parents want to get fresh air, they should have a mask of some kind. You could make one for them without needing to sew. A bandana over the nose and mouth will also suffice for now.

Groceries and Prescriptions

Your parents should be stocked with must-have groceries like produce, lean proteins, and grains. Some grocery stores offer home delivery. It can take a few days for the order to get processed and arrive. If you opt for delivery, make sure you order on a timely basis.

Curbside pick-up may be the better option. Don’t let your parents go out if you can avoid it. Instead, hire senior care aides to pick up groceries and prescription refills. Your parents can stay home, stay safe, and still have everything they need.

Paper Products

Toilet paper has been one of the hardest items to find during this pandemic. Don’t be alarmed if toilet paper is impossible to get hold of. Your parents may need to adapt for now and use napkins, facial tissues, paper towels, or baby wipes instead.

If this happens, put up a poster in the bathroom reminding them to throw away whatever is being used in place of toilet paper. It may not be as sanitary, but only toilet paper is designed for septic tanks and sewers. Flushing other items can cause clogs and put extra strain on equipment at water treatment plants.

Not only should your parents be staying at home, but you should too. You do not want to accidentally expose your parents to coronavirus. For now, hire senior care aides to help them. Trained caregivers are equipped with things like gloves and face masks that can help keep your parents safe.

Senior care services can be a temporary measure. When COVID-19 is over, you can return to being your parents’ main caregiver. Call a senior care to learn more about the benefits of home care during the pandemic.

If you or an aging loved-one are considering Senior Care in Alexandria, MN please contact the caring staff at Alternative Senior Care today. Providing Home Care in Central Minnesota and Surrounding Communities. Call us Today (320) 352-3350.