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Make sure to follow these 10 family care tips to take care of your parents amid rising Covid cases

The second wave of covid is here, and it’s important to be as cautious as possible, especially if you live with your parents. Here are some easy tips to follow to help them tackle the pandemic, and stay safe.
Dysfunctional family
Prevention is better than cure. Image courtesy: Shutterstock
Geetika Sachdev Published: 11 Apr 2021, 04:00 pm IST
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As we made our way into 2021, it seemed like things were getting better! But alas, the happiness was short-lived, because we are back to square one! The second wave of covid-19 is even stronger, and it has completely thrown us off guard. While vaccination efforts are in full swing, it’s still going to take a while until everyone gets a shot. And that means it is important to exercise caution, especially if you have elderly parents. 

Yes ladies, it’s time to take extra precautions, even this time around. As they say, ‘prevention is always better than cure’. In fact, there are several more symptoms associated with the second wave, including an unusual cough, pink eye, stomach issues, and more. So, if you or your parents experience any of these symptoms, make sure to get tested. 

And now, let’s tell you simple tips that will go a long way in taking care of your elderly parents. Are you ready?

1. Answer all their queries patiently

Your parents might have a ton of queries, and they are bound to ask you! So, instead of getting irritated and losing your cool, try to explain to them what’s happening around and the precautions they need to take. This will help them stay calm and safe during the second wave. It will also help them feel closer to you!

family care tips
Try to understand them and deal with their behaviour in a better manner. Image courtesy: Shutterstock
2. Sanitise your home

Yes, washing your hands and using a sanitiser every now and then is important, but so is maintaining hygiene at home. Also, make sure to practise social distancing at home as well, especially if you’re someone who steps out often to run errands or for office work.

3. Wash your hands before touching them

You could end up being a carrier of covid-19 and that’s the last thing you want right? That’s why make sure to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before you serve them food, or handle any utensils or laundry. This also applies if you’re going to touch them for any reason!

4. Keep a disinfectant handy in their rooms

As we said, hygiene is crucial, especially when it comes to covid. So, make sure to change their bedsheets and pillow cases every few days, and wash them well in hot water. Also, make sure to wash their clothes and bedsheets separately. Also, make sure to clean their phone every few hours.

family care tips
Stay in touch with them. Image courtesy: Shutterstock
5. Proper ventilation is a must

Again, even if you’re home, proper ventilation is a must. So, make sure their rooms are well-ventilated during the day for air circulation.

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6. Ask them to bathe every day

This is absolutely non-negotiable! Your parents must change their clothes every day and take a shower, so that the germs get washed away. The same goes for their clothes, which must be washed properly with a good detergent that kills germs.

7. Washrooms must be cleaned well

Your parents’ bathroom must also be cleaned properly, because that’s a hub of infection. So, make sure to use a disinfectant in the bathroom, before and after bathing.

8. Keep them engaged in activities

It might be hard for them to stay indoors, because they are so used to stepping out. But that doesn’t mean they have to feel bored? Try and help them engage in activities that do not involve technology. Spend some time playing a board game with them, or if there’s a large space indoors, you could also try your hand at badminton. You could help your parents learn technology, so that they can video call their loved ones and chat with them.

family care tips
Help your parents stay active, both mentally and physically. Image courtesy: Shutterstock
9. Keep an eye out on their nutrition

We all know nutrition is important for good immunity and that’s why it is essential you help them meet their daily needs. Try to remind them to have water every few hours or prepare a healthy meal for them that you can relish together as a family. Also, make sure they have their medicines on time, if there are any.

10. Uplift their mood

We all know these are hard times, and it’s difficult to stay upbeat. But make sure to be their support system and involve yourself as much as you can in all that they do! This will help them stay happy and calm, and will also make you feel relieved.

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About the Author

An independent writer and journalist, Geetika loves sharp and fresh humour, just like her coffee! If not writing, you'll find her cafe-hopping and raiding the best book stores in town. ...Read More

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