I am really on edge, living with 2 elder parents myself and letting outsiders in. But here I am contemplating trying to get some help for mom with personal care (that has been a challenge for 3 years and that she has consistently rejected). The warmer weather has resulted in dad's nose detecting or contributing to his feeling there is more odor. I have a couple calls out for respite programs to give it a try again, just to focus on the goal of her personal care...but wonder if I am taking an unnecessary risk for all of us considering the track record of resistance and failure and that those who provide in -home care could be anywhere at any time and be exposed and bringing it in. One agency claimed to be encouraging the limitation of their staff to work and home only...but come on...I wouldn't believe that for a second. It's evident there is a lot of stupidity out there. I'm also wondering about a workman or two coming in for a day or less to install some kitchen appliances that have been waiting on our living room floor for months. I'm just running a little scared. I have an N-95 I am reusing when I go to the store and shop and take all the precautions I can...but mom is 97 with dementia, dad now 103 and stubborn...What are you all doing?? PS PLEASE: do not suggest the personal care ideas of the no-rinse this or that or the spa day set up. My mother's personality and the relationships are such that they cannot be considered.
You could request they wear gloves, if they do not have them I will bet you have a box or 2 in the house.
As far as a covering over clothes...You are not going to come in contact with them so I think a cover for clothes is a bit much.
You can wipe down the appliances when they leave, as well as any surfaces they may have touched.
You could ask them BEFORE they come into the house if they are feeling well, have a fever, or have been in contact with anyone that has been exposed or diagnosed with COVID19. If they have reschedule and contact the company.
You can do the same for any caregivers. But since they will probably have physical contact you can request they wear a covering over clothes. (or stop and buy 1 or 2 pair of "scrubs" outfits to keep in the house and have them change when they come in, when they leave and you can wash the scrubs when the shift is over) They can wash hands when the arrive, wear masks. And put gloves on before any physical contact. And screen them before they come into the house, feeling alright? Fever? Exposure?
You need help and a balance must be struck. You will be of no use if you are so exhausted and burned out that you can not function. As with all things in life when a choice must be made...Benefit VS Burden....and Head VS Heart.
My Mom is currently having visiting nurses come out because of her recent hospitalization. They are very good about washing/disinfecting frequently during their visit, and only use the minimal physical contact possible. We had initially held her regular home health aide in March because I was out of work and because of fear of the virus. However, I am going back to work and so she will start coming again in another week or so.
I don't think it would be a problem to have appliance people in your house. Just have your parents in another room until they are gone and until you can disinfect anything they touch after they leave.
Grandma as always, good advice:-) But with what I know, the fever thing is just making people feel better and a false sense of security. The only one it is benefiting are those selling them:-)
Will see where the road leads as no call backs as yet...