A couple weeks ago, COVID-19 came to our house. I have to say we were a little shocked, but at the same time it felt inevitable.
My husband is retired, and I work mostly from home. We were vaccinated, we took every precaution, and we wore masks on the rare occasions we went out.
We have no idea where or when we might have been exposed to the virus. I contacted the few people we had seen in the days prior, but no one had any symptoms.
It started with my husband coughing, and the cough got worse quickly. When he finally got tested (stubborn man, so it was more than a week after he started coughing), the cough was pretty bad.
It was a positive test, followed by an antibodies infusion treatment, and we hunkered down for the duration. I got tested as well, as I was coughing some, and just felt lethargic. My results were negative, so I’m guessing those were just sympathy symptoms.
When my husband was experiencing the worst of his symptoms, I was scared. There were a couple of days when I wanted to take him to the hospital, but he wouldn’t hear of it (stubborn, remember?).
Looking back, we feel lucky. Looking forward, we will remain as vigilant as we know how to, while knowing that we can only control so much.
Unfortunately, this is not an uncommon story. By now, we all know someone who has had COVID. You may know someone who has passed away due to complications from the virus.
Sometimes it feels like an ominous black cloud hovering over our world. Even during this upcoming holiday season with all its Hallmark movies, turkey, Christmas trees and daily routines that seem to consume us, we can’t deny that fear of the unknown still exists.
But one thing I do know, there is a lot of support out there for people who need help. A small but meaningful bit of support came from a local grocery store. It’s an amazing thing to me to be able to shop online, drive to the store and have them load up my truck.
I know that’s not a new thing, but it sure was wonderful when I needed it. My family, friends and co-workers also offered much needed assistance, support and guidance.
I was also reassured and grateful to know that if needed, the Area Agency on Aging would be in my corner, too. The agency has a COVID Rapid Response Team that can assist you with a variety of needs.
If you’re older than 50 and have tested positive for COVID-19 – or if you’re a caregiver for someone who is older than 50 and you tested positive and can no longer provide care for the older adult – there are free services available to help during recovery.
If you find yourself in this situation and you need assistance, please call the Info-Line for Aging and Disability at 800-654-2810.
The agency can assist with nutrition through meal delivery; personal care, with in-home non-medical support, which could include shopping and errands, in addition to personal care. They can also assist with equipment and supplies, such as, 911 call button/fall detection services, grab bars and shower benches.
My family weathered this storm with the help of some great people. Our community is filled with people and agencies that are eager and waiting to help. Reach out and get the help you need. You’re not in this alone.