Staying Connected During Covid-19

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, unique challenges have surfaced for families hoping to stay in touch with susceptible loved ones. It is as important as ever to stay connected to your loved ones.  Fortunately, there are plenty of resources available to help families stay close in a time where we have to stay apart. Here are some great ways to help you stay connected

Video chatting.

Apps, like FaceTime, Google Hangouts and Zoom allow families to communicate via video calls. These apps are free to download and use. Let us know if you have any questions on how to download or use either of these apps. Independence Manor and many other facilities are offering video chatting.  It might be worth it to look into senior friendly electronic devices as well.

Plan a window or outdoor visit.

I bet you have seen photos of family member’s visiting their loved ones with a window in between them, either at a senior living facility or their home. During these visits, family members stay outside, but they chat with their loved one on the phone or bring signs with messages. In New Jersey, facilities are now able to host outdoor visitation, while following social distancing and masking up, which make seeing your loved one even more personal.  

Rediscover mail and the telephone.

Remember that mail is still an option, and it can give anyone an emotional lift to get a card, letter or gift in the mail. Send letters, cards and photos regularly in addition to your other methods of communication. Double up on phone calls to your loved ones. If possible reach out to other family members, friends, neighbors to coordinate phone calls to your loved one.

You may not be able to be together physically, but we can still make connections, and it is vital that we do so on a regular basis.

Posted by admin on July 16, 2020