Keeping Seniors Connected and Engaged During the COVID-19 Pandemic
COVID-19 is here to stay for the foreseeable future. With seniors required to maintain a distance between themselves and family members or friends, staying connected and engaged is even more important for the elderly. Here are some ways to safely engage and connect seniors during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Get Moving
Going to a fitness center or a senior center to participate in group exercise may not be possible due to safety concerns or closures. The good news is that it’s still possible to be physically active at home. Take a few laps around the house at a comfortable pace. Or see if a local fitness center offers some classes that allow participants to connect through video chat. There are also video resources available through sites like YouTube on demand. Caregivers can also take advantage of these options.
Travel Virtually
Since COVID-19 has made travel more difficult for people generally, virtual tours and experiences are an option to travel without leaving the house. Some opportunities to take advantage of include touring the Taj Mahal and Disney World.
Play a Game or Create Something
It’s easy to get caught up in what’s happening in the world and forget about hobbies and fun activities. While you’re spending more time inside, think about hobbies like painting, making crafts, or playing games like cards or chess. Engaging in these types of activities helps pass the time and help bring happiness in this time of uncertainty.
Embrace Technology
Technology helps millions of people across the world to connect to one another in this pandemic. Learning how to use a tablet and smartphone apps like FaceTime and Skype allows seniors to connect with family members and friends regularly from a safe distance. For seniors who hesitate to learn new technology, think of it as learning a necessary skill since it isn’t clear when COVID-19 will end.
Optimum Senior Care Solutions is dedicated to helping elderly clients stay active and engaged in Newport Beach or Orange County, CA. If you know a senior struggling to stay engaged in this pandemic, reach out to our care team to learn more about the care solutions we provide.
