From the Optimal Aging Portal | Caregivers: Unsung heroes of the pandemic

The Bottom Line

• The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has put pressures on all of us, but among all those affected since the start of the pandemic, one group has met incredible challenges: caregivers.
• The pandemic brought a whole new array of preoccupations for caregivers who must keep the home as a safe and infection-free environment for their loved ones, which can be difficult and stressful.
• If you are a caregiver, prepare a contingency in case you become ill or unable to provide care to your loved ones; find opportunities to share positive stories and acknowledge those in your circle of care; keep a regular and healthy routine; stay connected and maintain your social networks; and make sure to attend to your own needs.

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has put pressures on all of us. For instance, measures to prevent and control the spread of the infection like physical distancing, confinement and quarantine has clearly affected our social and professional life. Decisions to adapt the health and social systems to the pandemic (for example, closing ambulatory clinics, adapting cancer treatments, delaying elective procedures, or prioritizing the use of virtual care) has also affected our capacity to manage our health and care.

 

But among all those affected since the start of the pandemic, one group has met incredible challenges: caregivers.