How Our Home Care Offices Are Supporting Clients in the COVID-19 Outbreak

ComForCare and At Your Side are actively monitoring the progression of the coronavirus, COVID-19, to ensure that we have the most accurate and latest information on the threat of the virus.  As you know, this situation is developing rapidly as new cases are identified in our communities and our protocols will be adjusted as needed. 

We understand your concerns and want to share with you how our organization is responding to the threat of COVID-19.  

We are following updates and procedures from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) State Department of Health, local and county authorities, the Home Care Association of America, and other agencies and resources. Our response and plans may adjust according to the recommendations from these organizations.  

• As a standard practice, we have an emergency preparedness plan in place. We will continue to follow it as this situation evolves or update it accordingly. 
• All caregivers follow established protocol regarding staying home when sick. This practice is not new to our staff. 
• We have a screening tool for caregivers to assess their health before going into a client’s home.
• Communication with caregivers to assess any known risk factors, such as travel to areas with widespread outbreaks or local contact in areas known to have reported cases are ongoing.  We will advise them not to report to work if they are deemed high-risk.
• We believe that home remains the safest place for you or your loved one, as indications show that the virus is spread more quickly in facilities and larger group or public settings. Possible exposure will remain the lowest for those who are able to stay in their homes with limited outside contact. For this reason, we feel fortunate to be able to provide care that can keep people at home or limited exposure in group settings through personalized care and support. 
• For clients we serve who reside in facilities or other group-type living situations, we will work closely with the facility on any protocols, exchange of information, or other guidelines as necessary.

What You Can Do to Protect Yourself and Your Family

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available. Soap and water is preferred over hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid contact with people who are sick.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, then immediately throw the tissue in the trash and wash your hands.
• Clean and disinfect objects and surfaces at least daily.
• Eat well, drink lots of water and get 8+ hours of sleep to strengthen your immune system.
• Have a family emergency preparedness plan that includes care coverage and back up support, if possible.
• Stay at home and at least 6’ away from others if you are feeling ill.
• If you have underlying medical issues that put you in the high-risk category, avoid public places altogether. 

If you have any further questions or need in-home care, please feel free to contact your local office.