Home Support Workers worked with the Elders they serve to decrease in-person services to the minimal amount in order to keep both the Elders and Home Support Workers safe. In many cases, Home Support Workers are visiting the home only once per week and doing daily check-in over the phone.

Home Support Workers wear masks and gloves when they enter homes and work as efficiently as possible to provide services and sanitize the home. Where ever possible, family members are taking on the responsibility of caring for their Elders in order to reduce exposure. This reinvigorates the traditional practice of family members taking care of their own.

Homalco had existing pandemic supplies to utilize, and also ordered more Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and sanitizer. Community members and health staff feel safer, and are learning about the importance of family connectedness and caring for their own. Many community members are feeling empowered and realizing they don’t need to feel dependent on the Health Centre to meet all their needs. Our traditional way of being is very effective when put into practice. These values include family connectedness and being respectful of boundaries.