When entering a participant’s home, you are entering their personal space. Being aware of your surroundings is important and it a part of being safe in the community. Here are some tips to consider when making home visits:

• Become a “minimalist.” When entering the home, the less personal items you are taking in with you, the better.
• Keep emergency supplies in the car & your tank at least half full.
• Keep your phone fully charged just in case of emergency.
• Consider wearing closed toe shoes and socks. A participant could potentially ask you to remove your shoes at the beginning of the visit. You may not want your barefoot to touch the participant’s flooring.
• Ask participant’s to put pets away during the reminder call if you are uncomfortable with animals.
• Consider utilizing plastic instead of cloth bags. Cloth bags can entrap dirt, bugs, and etc. Plastic can be easily cleaned and disinfected after home visits.
• Wipe down materials after home visits often. This can prevent the transferring of any hazardous material to your home.
• If you see something, say something. If you notice something that can have a negative impact on the participant and their family, it is okay to vocalize it to the participant or their loved one. This can be done by having a light conversation with using a voice of concern before stating the hazard. For example, “I am concerned about your health and safety, I noticed (state hazard) during our visit. Are you aware of (state hazard)?” You can make a suggestion on how to minimize the issue or offer to connect them with a social worker at the Rush Alzheimer’s Disease Center.

Author: Cháron Cannon, MSW, LSW

I am a social worker and community engagement coordinator at the Rush Alzheimer's Disease Center located in Chicago, Illinois. I have created and manage the Social Service Assistance Program that assists study participants with finding/accessing community resources.