Its vitally important to stay connected to those isolated during these challenging times. Loneliness and social isolation in older adults are serious public health risks affecting a significant population and putting them at risk for major depression and even suicide.
People who may respond more strongly to the stress of isolation during the pandemic include:
- People caring for family members or loved ones
- People that have an underlying mental or physical health condition
- Those with a lack of social support from family or friends
Ideas to help those socially isolated while helping others across generations:
- Become pen pals, write letters, send cards
- Easy to use mobile devices, like tablets made for seniors
- Can view pictures
- Play Games
- Video Chat
- Make phone calls
- Set up social Video (Zoom) groups to talk with friends and family
- Participate in groups via video conferencing
- Church groups
- Book clubs
- Have story time, read to your grandchildren over the phone
- Home visits by caregivers or phone calls
- Take breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories, including those on social media. Hearing about the pandemic repeatedly can be upsetting
Click to watch the video on foxrochester.com
