People born between the years of 1945 and 1965 are known as the Baby Boomer generation, and they are at a higher risk for Hepatitis C (Hep C) than other generations. Hep C is a serious condition that can lead to liver problems, including liver cancer and cirrhosis. Baby Boomers are more likely to have the condition because of the way medical equipment and blood products were handled before regulations were put in place. Unfortunately, the disease is contagious, spread through contact with infected blood. If you’re a caregiver to an older adult with Hep C, it’s important to know how to protect yourself and others.
Homecare Richmond Hill: Senior Health
Safety with Personal Care
First, it’s important to note that Hep C cannot be spread through casual contact. This means that you cannot get Hep C from the older adult by hugging them or shaking their hand. It takes contact with blood or other bodily fluids to spread the disease. This means it is possible to be infected by using the personal care items of someone with Hep C, such as:
- Razors.
- Toothbrushes
- Earrings
- Nail clippers
- Needles
- Protecting Family Members and Visitors
One of your main jobs as a caregiver to someone with Hep C is to act as an advocate for the senior and educate others. Caregivers may sometimes need to remind visitors to be careful and avoid contact with blood if something happens, like a nosebleed or an injury.
Other things you can do to protect yourself and others are:
Wash Hands: Wash your hands with soap and water often. Remind the older adult to do so as well, especially after using the bathroom.
Use Gloves: As a caregiver, there are times when you may need to perform duties that expose you to bodily fluids. It’s important to wear gloves. Keep a box of gloves handy so they can be easily reached if an emergency arises.
Bandage Cuts Immediately: If the senior gets a cut or abrasion, bandage it immediately and keep it covered until it is healed.
Use Bleach: When cleaning the house, use bleach to disinfect surfaces. Clean items that could have blood on them using a solution of bleach and water.
Being a caregiver to someone with Hep C can be challenging. If you’re struggling as a family caregiver, home care can help. Home care providers can assist with all sorts of daily tasks, including assisting with personal care, light housecleaning, meal preparation, and medicine reminders. Having a home care provider takes some of the pressure off of family caregivers, relieving their stress and giving them peace of mind knowing the older adult is being safely cared for when they are unable to be there.
If you or an aging loved-one are considering Homecare in Richmond Hill, contact the caring professionals at Staff Relief Health Care 24/7 at (905)-709-1767.
Sources
https://www.everydayhealth.com
http://hcvadvocate.org
https://www.cdc.gov
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