The COVID-19 outbreak has caused many unexpected disruptions in our daily lives, especially for seniors dealing with isolation at home and social distancing. The older adult population continues to be most vulnerable to the disease, and family members and in-home caregivers are making necessary precautions to protect senior loved ones during the coronavirus.

While the sudden changes created by COVID-19 are preparing us all for a “new reality,” it’s also important to instill normal routines and schedules for seniors during this time of uncertainty.

Daily Routines are Important for Seniors

It may be difficult to think of effective ways to maintain or enhance the well-being of older adults under these complex conditions. With some lifestyle changes, your elderly loved ones can reduce their risk of getting infected from COVID-19 and other viruses.

Making sure they stick to healthy routines and remain calm, comforted, and safe has never been more critical. Here are some tips you should encourage seniors in your life to follow as they adapt to new healthy routines:

• Get adequate sleep
  Getting a good night sleep is essential for senior health. Older adults become sleepless for different reasons, but their sleeping patterns may be thrown off during the coronavirus pandemic. Make sure they get at least seven hours of shut-eye per night. Visiting Angels’ caregivers can help your elderly loved one establish a nighttime routine that helps them relax and sleep easier and more peacefully.
  
  
• Eat healthy meals
  Specific foods can do wonders for overall health and wellness, especially for the elderly. If they have medical conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, congestive heart failure, or coronary artery disease, their physician may recommend specialized diets. With your help or an in-home care provider, your senior loved one can stick to a nutrition plan and schedule.
  
  
• Stay active
  It’s never too late to promote healthy aging for older adults. Regular exercise, including yoga, is a great way for seniors to remain active, particularly during social distancing and isolation related to COVID-19. In-home caregivers can ensure seniors stay active by assisting them with low-impact exercises.
  
  
• Avoid dehydration
  Does your senior drink enough water daily? Seniors lose water content in their bodies during the aging process and can aggravate existing chronic conditions or create more serious health problems (kidney stones, urinary tract infections, heat stroke, etc.) if they suffer dehydration. Many elderly individuals may not understand the importance of water due to mental lapses or issues. A caregiver must play a vital role in ensuring the elderly consume enough water to maintain healthy levels.
  
  
• Keep up to date with medications
  It’s important for seniors to strictly follow medication instructions from a doctor or pharmacist. A regular at-home medication plan can provide proper daily routines for your senior loved one, especially if they have a life-threatening or chronic health condition. Visiting Angels’ care specialists can provide older adults with much-needed medication reminders to ensure daily adherence and consistency.
  
  
• Practice safe hygiene
  Good hand hygiene reduces health risks for seniors. During the COVID-19 outbreak, the elderly must wash their hands frequently with soap and water (for at least 20 seconds each time) to prevent exposure to germs. If they need help with personal hygiene, in-home caregivers can assist them with bathing, dressing, grooming, and more.
  
  
• Connect with family and friends virtually
  During isolation or social distancing, you can still see and talk with your elderly family members, even if they live a long distance. Routine calls or video chats are events they may look forward to and appreciate. There are plenty of creative ways for seniors to stay active and keep communicating while maintaining social distancing.

Hopefully, some of these tips can help your senior loved ones and you establish a “new norm” that is beneficial, healthy, and safe.