A COVID-19 Update from Family Matters In-Home Care

As we continue to actively monitor the progression of COVID-19 the health and safety of our clients and caregivers remains our top priority. We are following updates and guidance from the CDC, as well as state, local and county authorities, and other agencies and resources.

The CDC is recommending that older adults stay at home as much as possible. We agree that home remains the safest place for you or your loved one as the virus spreads quickly in large groups or public settings. We feel fortunate we are able to provide services that can keep people at home and limit their exposure through personalized care and support.

Because the older adult population is at high risk for serious illness from COVID-19, we understand you may have concerns. For that reason, we want to share with you some of the precautions we are taking to mitigate the risk of spreading the virus.

• We are directing our caregivers to stay home if they are showing any signs of illness so as to not infect any of our clients or their family members. All employees are required to have a normal temperature (without the use of fever-reducing or other symptom-altering medications, e.g., Tylenol, Motrin, cough suppressants) before going on shift.
• Our caregivers have completed a COVID-19 specific training module and are trained to follow CDC protocol, including frequent hand washing with soap and water, use of hand sanitizers, frequent cleaning/wiping down of surfaces, proper coughing and sneezing techniques, and more.
• Now built into our time tracking system, caregivers receive an alert when clocking in and out of shifts reminding them to wash their hands frequently and to immediately report any signs of illness (themselves or their clients) to our office staff. Additionally, starting this week our system will require caregivers to complete a COVID-19 screening questionnaire before clocking in for a shift.
• We are also providing our caregivers with hand sanitizer, gloves, and face masks (should a client or caregiver feel more comfortable wearing them).

Depending on the spread of the virus or action taken by national and state authorities (ex. mandatory isolation, closure of schools, etc.), our staffing levels may be affected in the coming weeks. However, we will continue to make every effort possible to provide our clients with safe and appropriate care. We will also have staff available to go to the grocery store, pharmacy, or run any other critical errand you may need.

If you have any additional questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out to your Care Manager or our offices at (888) 962-4836.