Building Social Connections as a Senior During a Pandemic
Many of us recognize the value in relationships. It’s often the friends and family that we turn to share our joy or pain. Healthy relationships are important at any point in life, but especially for seniors. Without a support network, seniors are vulnerable to the adverse effects of an isolated social life. Supportive relationships influence the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health of an older adult. Without a support network, seniors can experience severe loneliness or depression.
Building social connections as a senior can come with challenges. Add a pandemic to the equation, and fostering connections becomes all the more challenging for seniors who are most vulnerable to the coronavirus. In this season of life, when seniors most need social connections, the pandemic has created another barrier for seniors. However, there are ways that older adults can build social connections in spite of the pandemic. Here are a few tips to help seniors build and foster connections in the midst of the pandemic.
Join Virtual Senior Hangouts
In today’s society, it’s easier than ever before to stay connected through technology. Zoom meetings and Google Hangouts make it possible for seniors to continue to meet together, even if they can’t meet in person. Check out your local library or senior center for senior-specific classes or coffee chats you can join. Depending on the technology, you’ll be sent a link to the meeting in an email. Participating is as easy as clicking on the link.
Consider Senior Hours
If it’s safe and you’re healthy, consider visiting places that offer senior-specific hours to help build social connections. The crowds will be minimal and you’ll have more opportunities to meet other seniors who may be in the same boat. Libraries, churches, and stores have had time to create social distancing protocols. Many of these places are abundantly safe, as long as you do your part by washing your hands, wearing a face mask, and keeping a safe distance.
Participate in the Online Conversation
It’s not enough to just observe online classes, worship services, or other virtual events. In order to build and foster connections, you need to be a willing participant. This means using the chat or comment box appropriately to ask questions or share opinions. Participating during online events is also beneficial to the facilitator. It lets them know you are present and gives them instant feedback so they can improve the format. Make an effort to leave at least one comment or ask one question to help yourself build social connections.
Utilize Social Media
Social media is a wonderful tool to reconnect with former friends or find new friends that share common interests. If you haven’t already created a social media account, join one that suits your lifestyle. If you are on social media, utilize it to its maximum potential. Search for long-lost friends and “friend” them. Look for virtual groups to join, such as a senior-specific group or neighborhood group. Choose to follow local businesses, museums, towns, and/or libraries so that you don’t miss virtual opportunities. While social media should never replace face-to-face contact entirely and should always be used with caution, it is a great resource to tap into during the pandemic.
Be an Initiator
Finally, in order to build social connections, seniors need to consider themselves initiators. Be the first to call a friend you haven't seen in a while due to the pandemic. On your walks around the neighborhood, be the first to say “hello” to your neighbors. The pandemic has instilled fear for a lot of people. In reality, as long as you're keeping your distance and are healthy, it’s safe to say “hello,” especially when outdoors. Phone calls, video calls, emails, and snail mail are also safe ways to foster connections during the pandemic. Utilize these options to reconnect with friends or build connections with new ones.
Visiting Angels Cape Coral North Fort Myers understands the importance of staying connected during the pandemic. That’s why we offer a holistic approach that entails care for seniors, both inside and outside of the home. Our social care services help seniors stay connected with family and friends through the use of technology. Not only do our companion caregivers provide another social connection for seniors during the week, but they can also assist seniors with technology. We have already taught many of our clients how to use video chats, create and manage social media accounts, text their grandchildren, and participate in a virtual class during the pandemic. Let us come alongside you to help you build and maintain social connections as the pandemic continues. Contact us today by calling 239-226-1620.
Visiting Angels of Cape Coral North Fort Myers, FL
239-226-1620