The caregiver paradox: how can you practise social distancing when you rely on caregivers every day?

Introduction: Nearly four months into the COVID-19 pandemic, there are countless questions that remain unanswered. But one fact is indisputable: social distancing and isolation, along with strict hygienic practices, can lower the risk of contracting or spreading the virus. That’s reasssuring for the majority of individuals and families. But what about people who are absolutely reliant on daily support from caregivers for the most basic of needs? That’s the reality for many readers—people with higher levels of quadriplegia who face the double jeopardy of being potentially exposed because of their reliance on caregivers, and being at high risk for serious COVID complications because of their compromised immune and respiratory functions and other health issues related to their SCI.