Well, here we are in the middle of uncharted waters. The corona virus is sweeping the globe and with it many new terms, alerts, rules, and apparently, a new love and appreciation for toilet paper! That’s bad enough, but then to be pegged as especially vulnerable because you are 60 years or older is enough to make you want to scream.
It is certainly not a laughing matter, and it is important to heed the warning of the experts. Social distancing is imperative during this time to reduce the risk of you being exposed to the virus or exposing anyone else, but it can make for a very long day. You can only watch so much TV, read, nap or whatever you enjoy without missing the interactions and connections with real people. How can we do social connecting while we are doing social distancing?
Learn New Technology
Thank goodness there are many online options like Facetime, Zoom, Skype and others that allow you to see and interact with your family and friends. If you haven’t used these programs before, now is the time to learn something new. If you find it a bit out of your skill set, ask for help from a neighbor or relative and you will be good to go in no time.
Stay Active with Your Community from Home
There are actually many organizations like nonprofits and faith-based groups in your community who rely on volunteers to make phone calls which you can do right from your home. You will be connecting with your community and very much appreciated for your help.
Go on a News “Diet”
How many updates and “breaking news” does one need to hear during the day? Chances are there will not be much change from hour to hour, and watching news channels all day can raise your anxiety level. It is recommended to watch the news in the morning and then again in the evening to stay informed but not stressed out.
Reach Out to Family and Friends
Stay in touch with your family and friends. Check on those you know who might be more isolated or especially vulnerable. Some articles I have read suggest setting up a “Buddy System” to check on each other. Your church and neighborhood most likely have ways for you to connect and keep up with what’s going on around you.
“Social distancing does not mean social isolation, and even a potentially deadly virus should not force us to be alone. Now, more than ever, people need ways to stay connected” (Dr. Laura Archibald Pannone, Associate Professor of Medicine at UVA.
Click here to read the entire article by Dr. Pannone.
