Spike in numbers of older adults experiencing sensory loss

JACKSON, TN (WNBJ) - Imagine what it would be like to no longer be able to see, taste, touch, hear, or smell your favorite things? These experiences are the daily reality for some aging adults.

Older adults living with limited or diminished senses are facing added stress due to the COVID-19 Pandemic.

According to a survey by Home Instead Incorporated, 83% of older adults are living with sensory loss in the United States. The pandemic also increasing instances of isolation, which is a contributing factor to sensory loss.

Home Instead provides non-medical in-home care to older adults. They offer meal prep, medication reminders, transportation services, personal care, and much more.

The care facility emphasizing how vital the five senses are in keeping us connected to the world around us.

“With COVID we did see a lot of isolation set in with seniors and aging adults. Without family and friends being able to visit or maybe a lot of time for the aging adults’ own safety they didn’t want to risk bringing something in, so they didn’t come to visit. So, our CAREGivers were still able to be there," said Melanie Davis, the Homecare Consultant for Home Instead Inc.

An employee with home instead explaining what it takes to be a caregiver and the important role they play in their clients’ lives.

“You have to kind of give of yourself when you’re with a client. You have to let them know you are there for them. That you are there to make sure that they are safe. In this profession, you have to have the love that’s needed to care for people. You have to be a people-person, you have to treat people as you want to be treated and so I just let her know from day 1, I’m here for you," said Dianne Herron, a CAREGiver at Home Instead Inc.

Home instead incorporated is dedicated to delivering exceptional service in every single experience.