Tips for Staying at Home

Staying at home and avoiding crowds are necessary to prevent the spread of coronavirus, but it can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness. If you or a loved one is starting to feel the effects of being confined at home, try these suggestions for connecting with others during the outbreak.

Schedule virtual visits with friends and family

From free communication tools like Skype to smartphone apps like Facetime, there are a lot of ways to see and catch up with family and friends without having to leave your home. Many online communications tools provide a video feature to help you feel more connected to loved ones. When you are looking for a more simple solution, a quick phone call can also help lift spirits.

Play your favorite games online

Whether you prefer cards or board games, it’s easy to now play your favorite games online. Websites like Arkadium.com offer a variety of card and board games that you can play with others or on your own. You can also download apps on your phone to play games with others, like Words with Friends.

Join an online discussion group or book club

Discussion groups found on sites like SeniorChatters offer a way for older adults to engage in different topics online. Use these tools to meet other seniors from all over the world and discuss your favorite hobbies. If you are a reader, consider joining an online book club. Celadon Books shares their five favorite book clubs that you can join online.

Watch concerts online

Many people find connection and resilience through music. Organizations like the Seattle Symphony are finding new ways to share their services during these challenging times. Enjoy free broadcasts of the symphony from the comfort of your own home.

Communicate the old-fashioned way

Consider sending a handwritten letter or card to loved ones. If you like to volunteer, letter-writing can also be used to spread messages of hope. The nonprofit Letters Against Depression gives people an opportunity to write hand-written letters of support to people suffering from depression. This is a simple way to do and feel good and to connect with others.

Posted in Senior Health and Wellness