Rosemary Kamireddy, For The Bulletin| The Bulletin

November is National Family Caregivers Month. This year, caring for an elder during the Coronavirus pandemic creates additional considerations. When you're caring for others, it's critical that you take care of yourself to decrease the risk of increased mental exhaustion and physical health problems. Here are some tips to help you provide care and stay safe.

Whether you live with the person that you are providing care for or if you live separately; focusing on planning ahead, mental health and practicing infection prevention measures are essential for caregivers in the era of COVID-19.

Ordering a 90-day supply of medications, setting up home delivery of incontinence supplies, and refills for supplies of chronic disease care (lung disease or diabetes for example) alleviate last-minute refill requests.

Some caregivers meditate, pray or use relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or visualizing a positive place to improve mental health. Remembering to wash hands frequently, practice physical distancing, and mask wearing are prudent when going out or visiting.

Inquire with medical professional if they are doing telehealth visits and use them when appropriate. Keep key documents, such as medical histories, current medications, medical information release forms and advance directives, easily accessible for an emergency.

Explore community resources; these support and respite services can assist in the day to day caregiver responsibilities.

Senior Resources is our local Area Agency on Aging and can provide a wealth of knowledge.

Schedule a geriatric assessment; this is a helpful option in obtaining an accurate diagnosis and suggesting treatment/care options.

Care options can assist with some of the many responsibilities of caregiving; they include home health care, adult day services and home repair services.

Take a break from day-to-day tasks, as you deserve it. Your elder family member will benefit from someone else's company.

Think about respite care by friends, relatives or volunteers. A weekend or longer vacation can be helpful for the caregiver. Investigate a home health agency, nursing home, assisted living residence or residential care home; these care options usually accept short-term residents when they have a vacancy. Adult day centers, which usually operate five days a week, provide care in a group setting for older people who need supervision, socialization, medication and health monitoring.

Devise a plan for both of you to stay healthy that includes exercise, nutrition, hydration and adequate sleep. Focus on joy and gratitude; adopting a mindset that "this too shall pass" and "we are in this together.

Registered Nurse Rosemary Kamireddy is clinical community liaison,UCFS Eldercare Services.

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Healthy Living: These tips will help caregivers cope during this pandemic - Norwich Bulletin