The COVID-19 pandemic left many senior adults feel lonely or isolated. For many, being distanced from friends and loved ones has caused feelings of anxiety or depression. The good news is there are ways to feel more involved and fight those feeling of social isolation.
Tips for Combatting Social Isolation Caused by COVID
1. Take Care of Your Body
This is the best opportunity to prioritize your mental and physical health and well-being. While you are at home, keep yourself busy by taking care of your body. Prioritize getting eight hours of sleep each night.
You should also make sure to eat well and not skip meals. Try to exercise or get out of the house to take walks outside if you can. You could also try meditating or yoga to take care of your mental health.
2. Be Digitally Social
Many people who have to stay at home because of COVID-19 report feeling high levels of social isolation and loneliness. Being digitally social is a great way to help social isolation caused by COVID. There is no shortage of ways to maintain relationships online and receive social support.
Text, call, or email your friends and loved ones to let them know you’re thinking about them. Talking with a friend on the phone can help hours go by quickly.
You could also communicate with others through social media platforms like Facebook or Instagram. Those platforms allow you to post photos, message or call friends, and send posts to your friends.
There are many other digital opportunities available online. See if your local library or university is hosting an online event. Your church may also hold services or support groups online. When all else fails, you could watch videos or documentaries online to pass the time.
3. Do What You Don’t Usually Have Time For
Another way you can help social isolation caused by COVID is by using this time to do what you don’t usually have time for. Take time to explore a favorite hobby or try a new one. Finish an old scrapbook, play board games, or read a book that’s still sitting on your shelf.
You could also stay busy making some of your favorite meals or baking something you haven’t made in a long time. If you don’t have the right ingredients, consider having a friend drop off groceries or use an online grocery delivery service.
4. Spend Time Outside
Getting outside is a great way to pass the time and boost your morale. Try spending time on your porch, balcony, or backyard. You could read a book, draw, watch birds, or simply enjoy the sunshine.
Going for a walk is another great way to spend time outdoors. Be sure to stay distant from others while you are outside. Wear a face mask when you can’t stay at least 6 feet away from other people.
We Want to Help You!
At Greenbrook Medical, we believe that every senior citizen should be cared for and treated with respect. That’s why we have made it our mission to provide the best possible care for our patients. Contact us today for a consultation or to request an appointment with one of our geriatric doctors!
