BRYAN, Texas — Nursing homes and assisted living facilities are closing their doors to the public during this pandemic.
With the amount of technology available today and high-speed internet, it’s not hard to stay caught up with your friends and families. But, this could prove difficult to the older generation, especially if they are not on social media.
The CDC says adults older than 65 are at higher risk for the coronavirus. Many in this age group may feel even more alone during this time because of all the precautions meant to protect them. One good way to put a smile on their faces is to simply call them.
“If they’re not set up with video calling, don’t worry about it," said founder of dailycaring.com, Connie Chow. "Most people I think do have a telephone available to them and are available to use the telephone. It’s a great way to stay connected. Another thing I would suggest is set up a regular schedule for keeping in touch so that gives them another measure for security, when somebody knows, oh at 10 o clock every day, this person is going to call me. And that gives them comfort. To both sides, so if you can do that, that’s another great way to stay in touch."
Many facilities that care for the elderly are not taking visitors anymore.
“One way to keep in touch is also, find out if they’re accepting care packages or letters," said Chow. "You can drop something off and include photos, a note, that way seniors will have added comfort during this time."
Even the small things that you do can bring so much joy to an older person in your community.
“If you’re in a position to be able to help other seniors, for example, if you’re not caring for anyone but yourself right now, you’re at home, another thing you can do is find out if there are seniors in your neighborhood that can’t get out and get groceries, I’m sure they would really appreciate somebody else going out for them," said Chow. "You’re helping them by getting them the essential supplies that they need."
It doesn’t take a lot to stay connected and let them know that you are thinking about them.
For more ideas on how to stay connected in a safe way during this time, visit dailycaring.com.