DOTHAN, Ala. – COVID-19 has made an impact on plans and events since March, now it is affecting how people will celebrate their Thanksgiving and Christmas. This holiday season for several caregivers, it will be just them and their loved one at the table.
“We know that caregiving is isolating anyways and we have really found out that during this pandemic a lot of people are at risk of more isolation,” Brittany Huey, Alabama Lifespan Respite Resource Network Program Manager, said.
Thanksgiving is known for gathering with loved ones, sharing homecooked dishes and giving thanks, but with COVID-19 still on the rise, this year will not be the same for everyone.
“It is going to be hard I think this year,” Huey said. ”Because everybody wants to spend time with family.”
The Alabama Lifespan Respite Resource Network suggests for caregivers to take precautions in line with CDC guidelines.
“We do want to continue to keep them safe because they are the ones that are providing that quality care that their loved one needs,” Huey said.
Traveling is known to increase the risk exposure. Several will only see their loved ones virtually this year. Alabama Lifespan Respite said they have provided unpaid caregivers a tablet or are giving them a recommendation of someone who can, to stay connected.
“A lot of times for caregivers, this is one of the only opportunities for them to actually gather with others or have family come in and sometimes that’s their only means of a break,” Huey said
The organization partners with the Department of Senior Services, together they are providing a grant for unpaid caregivers in Alabama this holiday season. The health and safety stipends allows caregivers to purchase not only the technology pieces, but also masks, gloves and other PPE to create a safer space for gatherings; if held.
“A lot of these people don’t have family members or friends close by to come help if they did get sick,” Huey said. “So it’s very very important that caregivers are taking care of themselves right now.”
