How to Connect with Elderly Loved Ones During the Coronavirus Outbreak
March 20, 2020In an effort to limit the spread of the coronavirus pandemic, visitation is being restricted at assisted living communities nationwide. Such quarantines are being put in place to protect susceptible ill and senior citizens from contracting the potentially deadly virus. 
However, elderly residents will need, and want, the same level of contact and care that they are accustomed to — especially during these uncertain times. Here are some of the ways family and friends can still connect with their loved ones living in assisted care communities while avoiding their risk of exposure to COVID-19.
Comforting Phone Calls
Calling your loved one is an effective and simple method to stay in touch. Phone calls help to provide a more deeply personal connection with a family member because it offers comfort and personality not achieved in other means of communication such as text messages. People tend to feel more at ease when communicating over the phone because they can talk through any tough or confusing decisions.
Phone calls are also a great way to learn about the experiences of another without losing context or tone of voice. By putting thoughts into words, loved ones can share their situation, allowing family members to plan for a warm reunion in future, once these times of separation are behind us.
Lastly, calling your loved one helps to ease their concerns. By talking through a stressful situation, you can share a laugh, sing a song, and remind your loved one that peace can be found in times of worry.
Private Emails
While the jury is still out on the safety of letters, packages, and cards from spreading germs when sent through traditional mail, emails can be a great alternative. In fact, even if snail mail is a viable option, electronic mail offers many benefits that physical mail and phone calls cannot. For instance, email offers more private conversations that won’t be overheard by others. If you and your loved one want to share information on private documents, for example, emails are a good method to use.
Emails also help retain information. By having a log of what was spoken about, your loved one can easily refer back to previous conversations and continue where you left off. Emails can ultimately help with memory care and provide a way to practice retaining information.
Face-to-Face Video Chats
Video chats are powerful tools to both hear and see the face of your loved one. By offering interactive, real-time video and audio, apps and smartphone features like Skype, Zoom, and FaceTime are truly the next best thing to in-person visits. With temporary restrictions placed on meeting face-to-face, video chats are a viable alternative to connecting with a loved one from a safe distance.
As difficult as they may be, these restricted visitation policies are the best way to protect those most at risk. Fortunately, they are temporary and will subside.
Video chats also facilitate conversations because you can see the facial expressions of your loved one and hear them speak their thoughts. This dual communication tool can help in the better sharing of ideas and making of plans amidst any worries or stressful situations.
A Safe Community for Your Loved Ones
Trying to stay connected with your loved one from a safe distance may be an inconvenience during these uncertain times; however, prioritizing the health and safety of your loved one is no doubt your paramount concern, as it is ours. While you utilize the various methods of contact with your loved one while, the dedicated staff at Encore at Avalon Park will ensure that your loved one is cared for and provided with all they need to sustain healthy, happy, and fulfilled lives while practicing safe social distancing within our community. For any assistance or questions you need answered, call us today at 407-270-7500.
