Homeside and the coronavirus ( COVID-19)

The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic is developing and growing in all of the participating countries in the HOMESIDE study. All five partners in HOMESIDE are affected by strict restrictions from our authorities to prevent the virus from spreading. We are being advised that we should not visit older people in their homes.

The HOMESIDE team is exploring various possible ways to continue the study. One is to halt the trial and/or to adapt to the situation by including digital solutions and remote means. 

We know that people with dementia and their carers may be very isolated now, and our thoughts are with them. This in turn proves the need for home-based services like those being developed in HOMESIDE. 

On the bottom of the page you can read more about how people living with dementia might be affected by the COVID-19. You will also find tips for caregivers of individuals on assisted living.

New updates about the HOMESIDE study and corona will be posted soon. You are welcome to check out a partner's HOMESIDE page to read more about how your country is relating to the situation. 

Meanwhile: Stay safe and healthy! 

Best wishes, 

The HOMESIDE team.

About the COVID-19 and people living with dementia:

The Alzheimer Association, UK, on their web pages says the following about the COVID-19 and people living with dementia (downloaded 18 March from https://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving/coronavirus-(covid-19)-tips-for-dementia-care):

 “Most likely, dementia does not increase risk for COVID-19, the respiratory illness caused by the new coronavirus, just like dementia does not increase risk for flu. However, dementia-related behaviors, increased age and common health conditions that often accompany dementia may increase risk. For example, people with Alzheimer's disease and all other dementia may forget to wash their hands or take other recommended precautions to prevent illness. In addition, diseases like COVID-19 and the flu may worsen cognitive impairment due to dementia.” 

Tips for caregivers of individuals on assisted living

The following tips are offered on the same web page as above: https://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving/coronavirus-(covid-19)-tips-for-dementia-care