What Safety Measures Do Home Care Agencies Use to Prevent COVID-19?
Home care agencies have implemented extensive safety protocols to protect seniors and caregivers from COVID-19. These measures are based on guidance from the CDC, state health departments, and infection control experts. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the steps agencies take to minimize COVID-19 risks while providing essential care to seniors at home.
Rigorous Caregiver Screening and Training
- Caregivers undergo daily health screenings, including temperature checks and symptom questionnaires, before every shift.
- Agencies provide ongoing COVID-19 training so staff are up-to-date on the latest safety protocols, proper use of PPE, and what to do if symptoms develop.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- All caregivers are required to wear masks, gloves, and (when appropriate) gowns or face shields while providing care.
- PPE is used consistently, especially during close contact tasks like bathing, dressing, or medication administration.
Enhanced Hygiene and Cleaning
- Hand hygiene is mandatory before, during, and after every care visit.
- Caregivers regularly disinfect high-touch surfaces in the client’s home—such as doorknobs, countertops, light switches, and mobility devices.
Limiting Exposure and Contact
- Visits are limited to essential caregivers only, reducing the number of people who enter the senior’s home.
- Caregivers maintain physical distancing as much as possible and avoid unnecessary contact outside their assigned clients.
COVID-19 Testing and Reporting
- Agencies have protocols for routine or as-needed COVID-19 testing for caregivers and clients, particularly after possible exposure or symptom onset.
- Caregivers are required to report illness or exposure immediately, and agencies provide paid leave for staff who must quarantine.
Vaccination Promotion
- Most agencies strongly encourage or require COVID-19 vaccination for staff, and provide education on vaccine safety and effectiveness.
Support for Seniors and Families
- Caregivers educate clients and families about COVID-19 symptoms, prevention, and the importance of following public health guidelines.
- Agencies offer remote wellness checks, telehealth coordination, and help with contactless delivery of food, medications, and supplies.
Ongoing Communication
- Agencies maintain regular communication with families, updating them on any safety concerns or changes to protocols as guidance evolves.
For a full list of COVID-19 safety protocols and reliable testing options, visit our COVID-19 PCR Diagnostic Testing resource page.
