As COVID-19 began sweeping the nation in the beginning of the year, virtually every industry had to adjust their strategies to keep up with the vast impact of the virus. Coronavirus was affecting nearly every field of work, faster and more intensely than most could have imagined. Companies were forced to temporarily close, quickly implement the work from home strategy, and wait until the spread of the virus began to significantly decrease. But what about fields of work where you could not work from home, how were they to handle how to work while this dangerous virus quickly spread? In the Home Care industry, we are already tending to a vulnerable population, made even more vulnerable due to the Coronavirus. Because of both the speed and ease at which it was spreading, the Home Care industry had to quickly adapt, and ensure that all of our workers, and clients, remained safe at all times. FirstLight realized the additional pressure that was now put on our caregivers, who are already in a physically, mentally, and emotionally demanding career. While many people opt to stay home until our society is “normal” again, and prevent themselves from exposure to their virus, our caregivers were now on the frontlines. They continued to work as they always do, providing care for those in need, and now also taking additional precautions every single day.
A New Routine:
Our daily routine at First Light has been altered in recent months, to include the added safety protocols we now have in place. Each caregiver completes a daily screening process to ensure they can safely enter their clients home. A FirstLight office member is in contact with every caregiver before their shift on a daily basis. The daily screening consists of recording the caregiver’s temperature, as well as recording their answers to the now common questions regarding possible COVID-19 exposure. Caregivers must make the office aware of any travel they have done recently so they can follow the NY State Dept of Health re-entry protocol. This daily screening allows us to safely monitor all our caregivers and ensure we are keeping our clients protected from any unnecessary exposure to the virus.
Before the COVID-19 pandemic, FirstLight was already in constant communication with our caregivers. Everyday dialogues would revolve around placing caregiver on shifts, managing client concerns and transportation logistics, etc. COVID-19 has added to that typical dialogue, with conversations now revolving around making sure our caregivers & clients are safe on a daily basis.
Along with ensuring that our field staff are taking all the necessary safety precautions. We are in constant communication with our staff to offer any emotional support needed during this time. Our Coordinators are working in helping our caregivers navigate the altered public transportation schedules, and more.
It is difficult for many to understand what it is like for frontline workers to selflessly continue working during these unprecedented times, but we can make sure they are prepared and safe throughout their time working with us.
Firstlight is providing our caregivers with the necessary PPE they need to carry out their job duties safely. Masks, gloves, along with hand sanitizers, thermometers, and additional items are frequently delivered to our working staff to ensure they are protected, and keeping those they are caring for protected against COVID-19.
They are experiencing firsthand the impact COVID-19 has had on their field of work. While many work safely from home, Frontline staff everywhere had to swiftly adapt to the way the virus has changed their jobs.
If you are a caregiver, or know someone who is, please take a moment to read this article about caregiver burnout. In a demanding field, it is important to be aware of the stressors and signs that can lead to caregiver fatigue.