We all know by now that staying at home is the best course of action seniors can take to minimize risk of exposure. After hunkering down at home, many seniors can't help starting to feel some loneliness and perhaps isolation. These times of self-quarantine may be particularly difficult for a senior in a residential community that has had to restrict visitors and suspend social activities.
Even seniors who are being assisted by a family caregiver or a paid caregiver in their own home may start experiencing loneliness from social activities being curtailed, or grappling with stress or anxiety from watching or reading news about the virus.
Go on a News Diet
Yes, it's good to stay informed, but feeding on continuous breaking news is a certain recipe for needless anxiety. Ten to thirty minutes will keep you up to date, so limiting your news time to once or twice per day is recommended.
Have Virtual Visits with Family and Friends
Facebook, FaceTime, Skype, Zoom - there are loads of free options for seeing and talking to friends and family from the comfort of your home. If setting up an account is out of your skill set, a tech-savvy friend, family member or caregiver may be able to do it for you.
Stay Connected with Community Organizations
If you have enjoyed volunteer or charitable work for a community group, there may still be opportunities to take part, flex your civic duty and maintain a sense of purpose.
Join an Online Book Club
There are lots of online book clubs, with many offering a chance to create virtual friendships and get tips on downloading free books and audiobooks.
Gather Around for a Virtual Meal
Make a lunch or dinner date with friends or family. Select a day and time, order a meal to be delivered, and then call to talk during the meal.
Have a Board Game Night
Pick a game that everyone is familiar with and has at home - Monopoly, Life, Sorry, chess, bingo, Yahtzee. Have identical game boards set up at each home and play over the phone.
Watch the Same TV Show Together
Choose a popular series, a game show, or a documentary. Tune in at the same time and swap comments as you watch.
Get Moving Every Day
Gentle daily exercise lifts mood as much as it helps the body. A walk, stretching, or a chair workout video all count.
Ask for Help When You Need It
If loneliness turns into persistent sadness or anxiety, reach out to family, a doctor, or our team. You do not have to manage it alone.
Back to blog