How to Social Distance with Your Senior
How to Social Distance with Your Senior
When you are used to visiting your mother, father, or other senior in your life, being able not to can take some adjustment. Practicing social distancing is a necessary caution right now, but it can leave your family member feeling isolated.
Why social distancing is important
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has asked people to keep six feet distance from others. You are to avoid crowds, stay away from anyone who is sick, and not attend events. There are some states that want their citizens to “shelter in place.”
Social distancing can help to reduce the risk of your senior being affected by the COVID-19. But it may also leave your family members isolated and lonely. When that happens, then your family member may become depressed. Also, it can leave your senior with increased stress and changes in cognitive behavior.
Even though you can’t physically visit and spend quality time with your family member, you can still stay in touch. There are an assortment of ways to keep in touch and always protect your senior from the virus.
Ways to keep lines of communication open
There are ways to keep the lines of communication open during this time of social distancing. You can call your senior a couple of times a day to check on them. You can call with FaceTime or Skype with several family members all chiming in. You could read a book with your senior or even play a game; the possibilities are endless.
Another way to keep in touch is to mail a letter. It may be old fashioned to your way of thinking, but it will be a pleasant surprise to them. You can have the grandkids color pictures, send photos, or even an art project from the grandkids that will lift your senior's spirits.
You could also both read a book and discuss it or even watch a movie and do the same. It could be a classic that you know your family member has enjoyed before. Or try a new book or movie that you both wanted to see in the theaters but can’t now.
Other ways to show you care
Your family member may be worried about purchasing much-needed supplies or medication. You can help take care of that worry by having groceries or prescriptions delivered with a hands-free delivery.
You can also order take-out for delivery to your family member's home. Choose from their favorite restaurant (if open) and have delivery right to their door. It shows that you’re thinking about them and they won’t have to cook.
Encourage your family member to enjoy their hobbies. Some hobbies can be made into birthday presents or Christmas gifts, like a crocheted afghan. Your senior can take this time to work on those gifts.
If you know that your senior is running low on craft supplies, find what they need online and have it delivered. Imagine the happiness on their face when they see a package from their favorite craft store. It will show that you pay attention to their interests and know where to buy what they need.
Keeping your senior safe through this pandemic is both critical and necessary as the virus spreads. But with some of these suggestions, your loved one will still feel connected to their family.
If your family member needs help during this time, Right at Home is always a phone call away. We can take care of your family member when you can’t. Your family member's safety is our primary concern, and we wear masks, gloves, and, if needed, other protective gear. Call us today.