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FA M I LY
How to celebrate the holidays during a pandemic
written by SUSAN HURD RSVP PROJECT MANAGER GUARDIANSHIP CARE MANAGER AND COMMUNITY EDUCATOR WASHINGTON COUNTY COMMISSION ON AGING INC./AREA AGENCY ON AGING The holidays are quickly approaching, and many people have questions about social distancing, masks, new traditions, food, finances and high-risk family members.
The recommendations The Washington County Health Department and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend: • Maintain a distance of at least 6 feet from those not in your immediate household. • Wear a clean cloth face mask, which protects others from you. • Stay home if you are ill. • Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with hot, soapy water.
• Use hand sanitizer that has an alcohol base of 60% or more. • Don’t touch your face, eyes, nose or mask with dirty hands. • Hold gatherings outdoors or in well-ventilated spaces. • Cough or sneeze in a tissue, or into your elbow or sleeve. • Frequently clean and disinfect high-touch areas such as handles, door knobs and light switches.
The planning After a family determines whether to gather, the planning begins. Every successful get-together starts with preparation.