For almost a year now, we have been caught up in a pandemic that has taken us all by surprise. Covid-19 has transformed our daily lives and those of our loved ones, causing very complicated situations.

Caring for dependents, the disabled and the elderly has undoubtedly been one of the most affected.

– First of all, they are people at risk, they suffer from some illness or pathology that can be aggravated by Covid. For this reason, they require greater care, protection and attention than in other cases.

– They need to be accompanied. At a time when social contact and relationships have been limited (almost eliminated), for these people it is not a choice, but a necessity. Without that help, they would not be able to go about their daily lives.

– Reduction in medical care, rehabilitation or day centres. A large number of people travel daily to centres for check-ups or treatment, and this has been reduced and sometimes eliminated, leaving them in the care of relatives, instead of doctors, nurses, carers or educators.

– In the case of nursing home users, what has been reduced or eliminated are visits and contacts with relatives.

All these changes affect not only the dependent users, but also their relatives, as both parties are limited, and it is a great effort. For this reason, we would like to give you some recommendations for this new day-to-day life with dependent people:

– Limit the number of people in contact as much as possible, but without isolation, as this could cause other psychological problems.

– Encourage social contact by telephone or computer, with calls, video calls, messages, etc.

– Maintain a routine, as far as possible. It is essential for this type of person to have a set timetable for medication, food, hygiene, rehabilitation, exercise, etc.

– Eat a healthy diet. As in all people, when we lead a more sedentary life, we must take care of our diet.

– Avoid over-information. It does not help to be glued to the television all day long, constantly receiving information. Take the opportunity to do other types of activities, read, make a phone call to a relative, exercise, …

– Ask for information or help whenever you need it. There is no point in taking full responsibility for the situation, as we have said, it is an atypical situation for which we were not prepared.

– And lastly, and very importantly, take care of hygiene. This is essential for our health. It always has been, but now it is key.

Take care of yourself and your loved ones more than ever.