How to Stay Connected

There are many ways to stay engaged and present in your loved ones lives, even during times of social distancing. We hope this article will help you remind, and maybe even teach you, ways you can stay connected, happy, and healthy.

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1. Schedule virtual visits with your loved ones.

There are many free communication tools available to anyone who has access to a computer or smartphone. From Skype to FaceTime, there are many ways to interact with your loved ones without physically going to visit them. If your loved one does not have access to a smartphone or a computer, a simple phone call to check in on them will more than likely help lift both your spirits.

2. Play your favorite online game together.

Many websites allow users to play their favorite card games or boardgames virtually. On Arkadium.com, you can play a variety of card and board games with others or on your own. You can schedule a time once a day, or once a week, to hop online and play a game with your loved one.

3. Communicate the old-fashioned way.

When all else fails, write your loved one a letter. If they don’t have access to a smartphone or computer, a letter or card will help lift their spirits. When they are feeling down or missing you, they can always look back on the letters and cards you sent to be reminded that this too shall pass.

4. Shop with your safety in mind.

Learning how to use resources like instacart so you can avoid the hustle and bustle of grocery shopping and leaving yourself at risk of infection. Instacart is a safe alternative where you fill out what you need and someone shops for you.

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How can we avoid feelings of isolation while stuck at home?

Find one person with whom you can share your own worries and feelings over the phone. Is there a comforting friend, family member, therapist, or chaplain for you to call, to talk openly and privately? In these challenging times, it is perfectly natural to feel afraid, lonely, or overwhelmed. If you have no one with whom you can talk, call your local agency on aging and find out how to gain support. If you have previously seen a psychotherapist or faith-based professional, consider reaching out to them.

How can I avoid feeling anxious and remain engaged with others despite my age making me vulnerable to the virus?

Offering your time to volunteer and help others in your community is helpful for handling anxiety and helplessness. Some volunteer programs can be done from home. When we reach out to others who may be even more isolated than we are, it is psychologically healing and calming. Humans generally feel better when they have a sense of purpose and a sense of control by taking action.

Make gifts for people and get creative. Write, paint, knit, make crafts, cards, pillows, or puppets. Find projects that are creative and rewarding, especially if it will cheer up someone else you love. Share podcasts, emails, calls, and links about your favorite books, radio shows, and movies with your loved ones and friends so they have more entertainment. Enjoy music and play all kinds of soothing and cheerful sounds to boost your mood.

Contact Community Volunteer Network at (541) 857-7780 for volunteer opportunities available in Southern Oregon.

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COVID-19 (coronavirus) has brought many challenges to the forefront of lives all over the world in the last few months, especially those in the elderly community who are considered most at risk. This virus is strong, but it is not stronger than the love we share with our family and friends. There are some challenging days ahead, but they will soon pass and life will be back to the way it once was. Until then, the steps above can help you and your loved one cope until you are reunited.
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