Long before the appearance of the COVID-19 virus, polio struck fear in the hearts of Americans. One of CAREGiver of the Month Omoenuwa "Helen" Kunu's Home Instead Senior Care® clients remembers the polio epidemic that first started in the United States in 1916 and peaked in 1952. Of the 57,628 reported polio cases, there were 3,145 deaths. Polio is a viral disease that affects the nervous system, causing paralysis, and it generated widespread fear before Jonas Salk developed a vaccine.
COVID-19, also known as the coronavirus disease, began sweeping across the globe as early as December when it first appeared in Wuhan, China. It was labeled a pandemic by the World Health Organization on March 11. Stress concerning COVID-19 may be justified because seniors are among the most vulnerable. Rather than hearing about concerns from their clients, many CAREGivers have been lifted -up by their clients' perspectives and words of encouragement.
"One of my clients told me a story about how she grew up during the Great Depression and World War II. It was interesting how she noted that there was an epidemic – polio – during that time as well. She compared her experience then to the coronavirus pandemic we are experiencing now," Helen said.
"My client also discussed how she has been a devout Christian from a young age and how her faith has shaped her outlook on life and others. At the same time, it was very interesting to me to learn from her experiences."
Owner Greg Gomez-Mira's award-winning Home Instead Senior Care franchise provides an ideal service, a stout front line of defense for its clients and their families. The office staff and its CAREGivers have been aware of COVID-19 since January.
Not many protocol changes were involved in coming up with a game plan to battle the virus because Home Instead Senior Care franchises always have taught and practiced excellent hygiene protocol related to hand washing and every other precaution involving infections. Procedures were reinforced, and masks were added. The franchises make sure CAREGivers are all stocked with PPE (personal protective equipment). While CAREGivers wear masks, they also use disposable surgical gloves and wipe down surfaces.
Helen said joining Home Instead Senior Care was the best decision she could make in the fall of 2019, especially since Home Instead is a highly esteemed senior-care company. Helen said: "I have worked as a senior-care professional for two years, including about eight months with Home Instead. I am a CNA, and I am taking courses to become an occupational therapist."
Helen added: "I first heard about Home Instead from my sister, who is a nurse practitioner. I needed a job that would be flexible with hours, so I could also attend school. I have always enjoyed volunteering for the elderly in my community."
Helen was honored as the franchise's CAREGiver of the Month for June. "I appreciate the recognition the franchise has given to me. It really means a lot to me," Helen said.
"My favorite part of being a CAREGiver is listening to my clients, forming connections with them, and being able to see them smile in comfort at the end of the day. Their appreciation for my patience, encouragement, and companionship makes me happy."
Home Instead CAREGivers, who are screened, trained, bonded and insured, provide a variety of non-medical services to help keep seniors independent. For inquiries about employment with Home Instead Senior Care, please call (713) 955-1909, email Recruitment and Engagement Coordinator Margi Kenny at margi.kenny@homeinstead.com or fill in the email prompts at our Home Care Jobs page. Home Instead Senior Care also accepts online applications to become an in-home caregiver. For further information about the company, visit Home Instead Senior Care, or to learn more about the company's senior home care services, view our digital brochure. Our Home Instead Senior Care franchise serves Houston, Arcola, Bellaire, First Colony, Fresno, Greatwood, Iowa Colony, Lake Olympia, Meyer Park, Meyerland, Missouri City, Pearland, Quail Valley, Riverstone, Rosharon, Shadow Creek Ranch, Sienna Plantation, Stafford, Sugar Land, Sunnyside, Sweetwater, Thompsons and Westbury.
