How Caregivers Can Adapt to the New Normal
Special to The Truth
The COVID-19 pandemic has
changed life for the 44 million caregivers in the U.S. and
the people they care for, with social distancing creating
new routines, concerns and challenges.
To help caregivers adapt
to the new normal, Judith Ursitti, who is raising a son with
autism, shares these tips and insights:
• Social distancing
presents new challenges: The requirements around social
distancing may have eliminated access to some of the
activities your loved one enjoys in the community, and in
some cases, getting your loved one to accept this can be
difficult. However, it’s important to maintain patience and
empathy by preparing for this challenge.
“Not seeing the familiar
faces of friends, teachers and therapists has dramatically
increased Jack’s level of anxiety. That leads to additional
anxiety for the rest of the family. It’s hard,” says Ursitti.
From art projects to
puzzles to bird watching, try introducing alternative
activities that your loved one may enjoy and can participate
in safely.
• New tools can help:
While it may have been awhile since anyone in your family
has gotten a barbershop haircut, it’s important to stay on
top of regular hygiene, even if you aren’t leaving the
house. Be sure that showers, shaving and toothbrushing don’t
fall by the wayside. Not only do these routines provide a
sense of familiarity, they are important for your loved
one’s overall wellness, and innovative tools are making such
tasks easier for caregivers.
“A quick, efficient way
for me to help Jack shave is with the Gillette TREO, which
is conveniently designed for caregiver use,” says Ursitti.
There have been over 4,000
razors designed for shaving oneself. As the first razor
designed to shave someone else, Gillette TREO was created
specifically for caregivers and their loved ones. Its
award-winning, inclusive design helps protect gentle skin,
offers better control and removes the need for water, so
caregivers can confidently and safely shave their loved ones
anywhere, even away from the sink. To learn more, visit
Gillette.com/TREO.
• Take care of yourself:
It can be easy to forget that there is a light at the end of
the tunnel.
“Try to remind yourself,
especially when the anxiety is high or the situation is
challenging, that it too shall pass,” says Ursitti. “Take a
deep breath and encourage your loved one to do the same. And
when all else fails, eat some ice cream.”
Reaching out to friends
and family is especially important right now in combatting
feelings of isolation and for support. Thanks to video
chatting tools, it’s easier than ever to stay connected.
Caregiving is never easy
and these unusual times can make things even more difficult;
however, new tools can offer you additional support.
Courtesy StatePoint
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