A Home Health Aide’s role as caretaker means they work to improve the quality of life of a patient. This often means they find themselves working in a patient’s house for long hours. During the time spent at a patient’s house, it’s possible Home Health Aides may become exposed to potential health risks.
Here are some ways Home Health Aides can stay healthy while working at a patient’s house:
Get Exercise
Even if it’s taking a slow walk with your patient, or if that’s not possible, just doing stretching, yoga/tai chi, vigorous cleaning – grab exercise whenever you get a chance during the day.
Eat healthily while working
Make sure your patient eats healthy meals, but don’t forget to eat healthy meals yourself! Eat fruits, vegetables, and low-fat foods, if possible. Eating a healthy diet during the time you spend at a patient’s house can improve your blood pressure, your cholesterol levels, and give you energy throughout the day.
Look out for dirt/mold
If there is excessive dust or mold in your patient’s house, this can make you sick. Let your agency know if you see such a health hazard.
Go Outside
Go outside if possible! Time outdoors will likely benefit your patient and the fresh air will rejuvenate you as well.
Don’t trip
Tidy up potential tripping hazards. If there are piles of debris on the floor, remove them. Clutter is a potential hazard to both you and your patient.
Watch out for ice
During the winter, if you’re going outside with your patient, make sure the sidewalk is free of ice. Let your agency know if potential ice hazards exist. Removing ice removes the chance of you taking a dangerous fall.
Watch for Pests
Did you see a rat? How about a cockroach or bedbugs or animal droppings? Let your agency know. Rodent bites and rodent droppings can cause a wide variety of unpleasant diseases.
Keep good hygiene
Wash your hands throughout the day. Keep germs and bacteria at bay.
Stay cool! Or warm.
Try to regulate temperature in the house. Extremes of heat or cold are dangerous to both your patient and to you.
Relax
Regulate your stress and anxiety. Caring for another person can be emotionally demanding. Try to find time to do relaxation exercises. Breathing exercises, muscle relaxation exercises, and visualization can all help your reduce stress.
Mind your brain
If your patient is asleep and you’re able, pursue a hobby of yours. Read a book, knit a scarf, solve a Rubik’s cube. Do something to keep your mind stimulated and occupied.
Ask for help
Don’t be afraid to ask for help. While you might be solely responsible for your patient, that doesn’t mean that you’re alone. Talk to friends or family if you need to.
