The COVID-19 pandemic has caused many people around the world to rethink how certain things are done, including how we connect with loved ones. 

Many are staying home to protect their loved ones but are also looking for ways to keep connected and combat feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Today, we will go over connecting with a loved one when you can’t be together. With senior citizens being the most vulnerable of our population, we have to do our part to keep them safe, happy, and well cared for.

Virtual Visits

When you can’t be with your loved ones in person, consider the next best thing. Virtual visits can be done through Zoom or Skype and allow you to remain connected with your loved ones. These are video calls you can make at any time of the day or night to check in and see how they are doing.

Phone Calls

Instead of a routine phone call, you can also use the phone as a way to remain close with loved ones and interact. You can both stream the same movie, for example, and discuss it over the phone. 

Some streaming services are also allowing people to stream the same movie in real-time without any lag so you can watch together. 

You can even FaceTime and play a board game together or read stories. These are just some of the more creative ways you can utilize technology to stay in touch and connected with loved ones who may be in elder care facilities.

Window Visits

If you live close to your loved ones and they have a first-floor window that is easy to access, then you can also consider window visits. Keeping the window closed, you can sit outside and visit with your loved ones. 

You can have that face to face interaction with those in home care without having to compromise their safety.

Back to the Basics

If you aren’t a fan of technology or your senior loved one is unsure, you can always go back to the basics. 

Some other ways to continue to encourage a personal connection with our loved ones is through email, postcards, and handwritten notes. This can also have much more of a sentimental impact and is something they can hold onto as a keepsake.

Dinner Dates

With many restaurants closed and social distancing in effect due to COVID-19, we can also utilize video chat platforms as a way to have a face to face dinner with our loved ones. 

Simply log into the video chat platform of your choosing and have a meal together as you chat and update each other. This is also good for having virtual birthday parties, dance parties, and so much more, so no one has to miss out on any significant milestones. 

Online Groups and Classes

For more social interaction and to combat loneliness and isolation, senior citizens can also join online groups and classes to stay connected. People can exchange messages and chat online in these groups at any time. 

You can set up groups for different things. For example, you can have a family group and then a separate group for colleagues and friends.

Online classes are also a great way to socialize. Since many gyms and fitness centers are closed, you can even log onto the internet and find exercise and cultural classes.

You can find a variety of activities you can do online, including yoga, dance, and online art classes. 

As you can see, there are many ways we can stay connected while still keeping ourselves and loved ones safe.