Are you concerned about a senior who is lonely or isolated especially during  COVID-19?

Many home care agencies now provide companionship and friendly check-ins – safely by phone or video chat – to help seniors stay mentally and physically healthy. As many families are finding it challenging to support their senior loved ones during the COVID-19 pandemic, due to the ongoing need for physical distancing, virtual care can help.

Before virtual  care begins, your local home care agency may conduct  a short assessment, over the phone. to learn about your loved one’s health (including medications, nutrition and self-care strategies), as well as their hobbies and interests. A caregiver will then contact your loved one as often as needed (daily, every other day, or weekly), offering care and conversation.

Seniors’ loneliness 

Statistics Canada has reported that an estimated 1.4 million seniors feel lonely often or some of the time – and that was before the COVID-19 crisis compelled Canadians to practise physical distancing. A recent Ipsos survey, conducted for Global News, found that 40% of people aged 55 or older are feeling lonely or isolated during the pandemic.

In addition to providing companionship, virtual care can be used to assess your senior loved one’s personal care needs and even provide a home assessment to address safety issues and recommend home modifications.

Virtual care can also remind seniors about doctors instructions and medications and can be used for coaching and motivating to achieve health goals.

“With virtual care you can monitor Mom’s or Dad’s well-being, allowing them to stay safe while staying home”, says Jodi Marrin, Marketing Manager at Bayshore HealthCare.