The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted every aspect of our lives, and that includes the effect it has had and still has on the mental well-being of the senior community. So as family members, it is up to us to find ways to create a more uplifting home environment for them from a distance. Today, we will discuss how you can do just that.
Send Mail
One thing you can do is to send handwritten letters to seniors in home care. Opt for handwritten cards if you want something a bit more special. Your loved one can display your cards and letters in their room when they are done reading and go back to them whenever they wish.
Virtual Meals
Social distancing makes it impossible to share a meal in person with our loved ones in home care. To get around this, share a virtual meal instead. You can plan a long-distance date by ordering their favorite meal and having it delivered to them with contactless delivery. You can then call them and talk during the meal or find someone who can help them go on Skype for a video call.
Communicate Regularly
When you have seniors in home care who you can’t visit because of social distancing, contact them regularly to inquire about their health and mental well-being. Ask how they have been sleeping or if they are experiencing higher levels of stress these days. This is your chance to evaluate their state of mind and help them if needed.
Create Hobby Boxes
Another way to create a more uplifting home environment at a distance is by providing them with a hobby box. Go to the local craft store and look for a nice box or container. Decorate it and then fill it with some of your loved one’s favorite items like crossword puzzle books, paint and paper, yarn and hooks, small toys, or materials for whatever hobby they currently enjoy.
Play Board Games
Yes, you can still play board games while social distancing from your loved ones in home care. Think of the classics like Monopoly, Clue, or Scrabble. Make sure you set up the board game in the same way in your home and your loved one’s home. You can then play over the phone or through video chat. Since these board games may take hours to finish, you can get some quality time in with your loved ones even from afar.
Jigsaw Puzzle
Do your older relatives love jigsaw puzzles? If so, order one of a picture of your family for them. Several companies online specialize in that service. They can take a photograph of your choosing and turn it into a puzzle that will lead to a more uplifting environment for the seniors in your life.
You can get them a puzzle with as few as 15 pieces or as many as 2,000 if you have a puzzle lover in the family. You can also order them a mug with the same family picture on it so they can enjoy their coffee while working on the puzzle.
Have Fun With Technology
Facebook, FaceTime, and email are other ways you can stay connected with senior loved ones while social distancing. The internet is also a good place to find games, museum tours, and other options to keep them mentally occupied during these trying times.
If they aren’t good with technology, then the home care workers can step in and help out when needed. They can teach them how to use different apps on their smartphone or computer.
Creating a more uplifting home environment for seniors is important as we continue to social distance. Finding stimulating and engaging activities for them to participate in with the family is a good way to promote positive mental well-being.