Posted on May 4, 2020 in Senior Tips
COVID-19 is causing worldwide fear leading to the enforcement of home quarantine in an attempt to stop the virus spreading.
Social support and a positive outlook both help when you’re coping with stress. Sadly, even these small steps can be challenging with the implementation of social distancing.
People who are exposed to the virus are forced to isolate themselves in the hope of further controlling the spread of this disease.
Uninfected people are also obliged to practice social distancing, especially when heading out for food and other essential errands.
While it might not be possible to stop the contagion from spreading, these measures should certainly slow it down. It’s also a way to protect those who are more susceptible to contract the disease, seniors in particular.
So, while the reasons for quarantine are not difficult to understand, dealing with the reality of being compelled to stay at home can be tough for the elderly.
Self-isolation can prove to be a huge challenge as humans are naturally social beings. Anyone who is socially vulnerable – many seniors, for example – is more prone to struggle as this quarantine period continues.
If seniors are forced to self-quarantine, it can prove harder for others to extend the help they can usually offer.
The value of person-to-person interaction is irreplaceable. This means being flexible and creative can prove valuable under these atypical circumstances.
Modern technology now can help alleviate stress and boredom of being in home quarantine.
How about seniors who are not too tech-savvy, though? How will you help them to cope with quarantine?
And how will you stay connected with your elderly loved ones?
We’ll guide you now through a range of ways you can help your elderly loved ones to stay connected during these trying times.
Fear and anxiety can become overwhelming during the COVID-19 home quarantine. It’s simply not easy to stay home for extended periods. Fear and anxiety left unchecked can trigger long-term stress that could lead to more serious health problems.
Even if you have adequate space to move about inside, being out in the sun and taking walks in the morning are still essential for your mental and physical health.
Things become even more problematic if a senior is living alone. How, then, can you connect with someone if we’re all advised to stay home?
Well, the world of technology at your fingertips allows you to remove the distance from social distancing. These tips might not replace the comfort of real, tactile interaction but you’ll certainly lessen the stress and boredom.
Try some of the following ways to stay connected:
Nowadays, arguably the easiest way to connect is through texting.
Even if the other party is not available to chat, an SMS can let them know you’re thinking of them.
You won’t need an internet connection either as long. All your loved one will need is a basic cell phone.
Most seniors are still a fan of writing letters rather than communicating electronically. Emails make a nice happy medium.
You’ll be less constrained by length than when you’re texting. Instead, rattle off a letter-length missive without needing to pay for postage. What’s not to love?
Send your elderly loved one an email packed with warm and heartfelt messages to make them feel special and kickstart communication.
With video calls, you’ll get the next best thing to communicating face-to-face. The happiness it will bring to the seniors in your life is beyond measure.
Depending on the application and internet connections at either end, video calls can accommodate anything up to 50 participants. Get the whole family in on the act!
Ever heard the words “I’m just a call away?”
Texting is convenient but a phone call is a stronger alternative. Hearing the voices of loved ones when the going gets tough is always a boost.
Communicating by phone is the simplest way to reach out to people. You won’t need to wait for a text or an e-mail reply.
Beyond the convenience factor, chatting can alleviate boredom and loneliness.
This is a rather new and fun way to interact electronically. Someone in your family or group of friends can organize a watch party online with very little trouble.
Watch parties enable you to watch a movie online with your friends and family. You’ll also be able to chat and comment below the video playing.
If your elderly relatives are reasonably comfortable with tech, try introducing some watch parties to liven up their days.
Now is the perfect time to send somebody you love a package you purchased online.
Buy them a book to curl up, a few movies to watch, or perhaps some perfume so your loved one feels special even if they can’t get outside.
If your loved ones live nearby, arrange a meet-up outside your doors or windows. Balconies and porches work well, too.
You might not be able to get close enough to hear each other properly so combine face-to-face communication with cell phones for the best of both worlds!
Just remember: keep your distance.
We’re acutely aware many seniors are finding lock down remarkably wearing. We’re here to help in any way we can at Landmark Senior Living.
Whether you want more guidance on how to stay connected with loved ones during quarantine or you’d like more information on our assisted living communities, don’t hesitate to get in touch any time you need help.
