Keeping Your Family Safe From COVID-19

(part one)

Individual with Quadriplegias and individuals with chronic diseases such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and multiple sclerosis (MS) are especially vulnerable to the effects of COVID-19.  If you or a loved one is a individual with quadriplegia or has a chronic disease, it is more important than ever to take extra precautions. Our next series of articles will highlight some ways you can help keep you and/or your loved ones safe during this difficult time.

Monitor Local Health Department Recommendations

COVID-19 cases differ by state and county.  It is important to monitor what local health departments are saying about COVID-19 in your immediate area.  Perhaps there are few cases in your zip code, but that can rapidly change.  Following the recommendations of your local health department in addition to state and federal guidelines is the best way to keep you and your family safe.

Wear a Mask

Even if you live in an area that does not mandate wearing a mask, caregivers and family members should consider doing so when they are out in public and while they are tending to the needs of a person with a disability or chronic illness. This is especially important because your loved one may not always be able to wear a mask around you, especially if they rely on an input method such as sip and puff to operate their custom environmental control unit (ECU) / speech generating device.

Shower and Wash Clothing After Being Out in Public

Any time you are exposed to the public (i.e. grocery shopping, work, doctors office, etc.) you should immediately take a shower when you return home.  It’s also not a bad idea to wash your clothes.

Accessibility Services, Inc. (ASI) is a leading provider of assistive technology for individual with quadriplegias and individuals with debilitating diseases such as ALS. We care about the individuals we serve as if they were family!  We are continuing to install our signature autonoME (combined environmental control unit / speech generating device) in private residences, hospitals and long term care units throughout the United States.  Our technicians take extra precautions to ensure the safety of everyone around them.  Whether you are in need of ECU hospital units for your facility, or an individual seeking to gain more independence, we can help. Give us a call to learn more today!