What Should Seniors and Families Expect During COVID-19 Home Visits?
COVID-19 has changed the way home care services are delivered, with a strong focus on safety, infection control, and ongoing communication. Understanding what to expect during home visits helps seniors and families feel confident that all necessary precautions are in place. Here’s a detailed overview of what happens before, during, and after a home care visit in the COVID-19 era.
Pre-Visit Screening and Scheduling
- Home care agencies screen caregivers for COVID-19 symptoms or recent exposures before every shift. Many agencies also check the health status of the client and household members prior to the visit.
- Visits are scheduled with flexibility, and non-essential tasks or large care teams are minimized to reduce risk.
Arrival Protocols
- Caregivers wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including masks, gloves, and sometimes face shields or gowns, especially for personal care tasks or if the client is high-risk.
- Some agencies may ask seniors to wear a mask during the visit, particularly in areas with high community transmission.
Hygiene and Infection Control
- Hand hygiene is performed upon arrival, before and after any personal care or meal preparation, and before leaving.
- High-touch surfaces are disinfected as needed during and after each visit.
- Supplies and equipment brought into the home are sanitized between clients.
Physical Distancing and Limited Contact
- Non-essential contact is minimized, and only essential caregivers are present during the visit.
- When possible, social distancing is observed, especially if someone in the household is unvaccinated or immunocompromised.
Health Monitoring and Communication
- Caregivers may check the client’s temperature, monitor for symptoms, and ask about any changes in health or exposure.
- Families receive regular updates about agency protocols, and caregivers communicate any concerns or symptoms promptly.
After the Visit
- Caregivers dispose of PPE safely, sanitize hands, and leave a record of the visit and any care provided.
Virtual and Remote Services
- Telehealth and remote check-ins are offered for non-urgent care, care planning, and health education to further reduce in-person contact when possible.
What Families Can Do
- Maintain open communication with your agency about any symptoms or exposures in the household.
- Follow recommended home safety protocols and encourage vaccination for all eligible household members.
For more about safe home care visits and testing during COVID-19, visit our COVID-19 PCR Diagnostic Testing resource page.
