()– Most people don’t consider how it feels to be isolated from others on a daily basis.

We are beginning to feel more empathy for the daily struggles of older adults, as most of our communities practice social distancing in order to stop COVID-19 spreading. According to the 2018 National Poll on Healthy Aging27% of seniors feel isolated. More than one-fourth report that they have experienced social contact at least once per week.

“The uneasiness, loneliness and helplessness that many of us are feeling now will eventually pass,”Jeff Huber, CEO at Home Instead Senior Care, said the following:

“For socially isolated seniors, however, this pandemic has the potential to amplify the impact on their already-fragile situations. While the world stays home to prevent illness, we must reach out to our neighbors and loved ones to make sure our seniors stay connected.”

Social distancing can amplify loneliness for seniors who live alone. Isolation can lead to serious health consequences, such as increased risk of heart attack, stroke and depression, anxiety, and even premature death. However, there is a remedy. It’s called “community.”

We need to be creative and have a lot of intentions to keep in touch with our loved ones and neighbors, even when it is not possible to bring family and friends together.

Home Instead Senior Care offers these ideas for staying connected, whether you are helping a neighbor or relative with social distancing or trying to reduce isolation:

1. Establish a schedule. It can be easy to let days pass between the next phone call or email, even with our best efforts. Regular check-ins are a great way to support older relatives, friends, and neighbors. It is important to plan ahead. It is important to plan ahead.

2. Video chat. Video-chat platforms like Skype and Zoom, as well as tablets such as the iPad and GrandPad, are great for seniors to have social interaction when visiting family and friends is not possible. Webcams make it easy to connect the generations. This allows grandchildren to show off their school projects or distant relatives the opportunity to communicate with one another.

3. Give them the number. While texting is an effective way to communicate with your loved ones, it is not always the best option. Sometimes picking up the phone is the best method to do the job. Reach out to a relative or parent and make sure you give them your complete attention. You can ask for their opinion or inquire about their hobbies, family, or recent activities if you are having trouble coming up with conversation topics.

4. Embrace snail mail. A postcard or old-fashioned letter is a good way to say hello and remind people you are thinking of them. A thoughtful letter can not eliminate loneliness completely, but it can lift spirits and show that you care. You might consider asking your children to create pictures and practice handwriting by writing a special note.

It is easy to share a little cheer with seniors as we all adjust to the effects of COVID-19. Visit www.stupid.com for more tips on building a relationship with the older adults in your family. ReadytoCare.comGet in touch with your local Home Instead Senior Careoffice