First In Care takes both our caregivers’ and clients’ safety seriously, especially during these times and with more news about the Delta variant coming to light. In line with the Home Care Association of America’s suggestions, we wanted to take a second to share the following points to reassure and encourage both our clients and caregivers, as well as acknowledge some of the problems we face.

 

  • Since the beginning of the pandemic, our priority has been – and continues to be – protecting our clients and frontline workers from COVID-19. This means continued adherence to universal precautions and universal infection control measures, as well as the use of masks and other PPE. This now also includes COVID-19 vaccines.    
  • Our agency has educated our caregivers about COVID-19 vaccines and encouraged them to get the shot. We assisted with scheduling a vaccine appointment or paid for the time off needed to get the vaccine.  
  • We have not let up on this effort and continue to urge frontline workers to get vaccinated.  
  • Demand for home care is at an all-time high. Some of this is driven by the pandemic, during which people recognize that the home is not only preferred by clients, it is generally considered safer than facility-based care.
  • Families are afraid to send their loved ones to a nursing facility because of the high number of COVID cases and deaths.
  • Some agencies have had to turn away hundreds of requests for care each month because they did not have the home care aides on staff to provide care.
  • We recognize many sectors of our economy are experiencing workforce shortages – hospitality and retail, in particular – but the home care workforce is different.
  • This one-to-one care is different for every client. We meet them in their world and they tell us what they need and when they need it.  Home care enables seniors and people with disabilities to remain at home by assisting with daily activities, such as bathing, dressing, and reminders about medications.
  • A caregiver directly impacts the quality of life for our most vulnerable citizens.
  • If in-home care is not accessible, the only option to receive care would be in a facility, which costs more and is the least preferred setting.  
  • Home care is one-to-one care, with the client in control. This includes their right to request vaccinated caregivers only. As an agency, we will honor this request.
  • We are in unprecedented and unpredictable times, but one thing remains the same: health care at home should be considered a right for all Americans. 

To learn more about what First In Care is doing to protect your loved one from COVID-19, visit our Coronavirus Response page. We hope everyone is staying safe and healthy!