The global coronavirus outbreak has changed life exponentially. For most generations, never in living memory have we faced such tremendous upheaval in such a short space of time. Most of us are spending the majority of our days at home, either working from home or on furlough, while essential workers strain to keep the fabric of society held together.
For previous generations, however, especially those who lived through the second world war, this may all feel a little too familiar. After all, these are the people who lived through rationing, blackouts, buzz bombs, and air raids. The generation that learned to make do and mend, learning new skills to supplement a workforce at war. Generations who gave their all for us need us now more than ever. Their vulnerability in the current climate reminds us of how important it is to protect our elderly loved ones in these uncertain times.
If you have an elderly family member who you’re worried about it can be extremely frustrating if you aren’t able to see them and spend time with them. However, there are ways in which you can make sure they’re protected. For example…
Make sure they’re getting the best residential care
If you have a loved one in residential care, now might be a good time to do your due diligence and ensure that all is as it appears. Many unwittingly check parents or grandparents into care homes not knowing which are the best and the worst nursing homes in their area. Fortunately, the digital age has brought newfound transparency to residential care with residents and their loved ones sharing their experiences online. An elder abuse attorney can be invaluable if you have suspicions that someone you love is, or has been, subject to elder abuse.
Make contact with other relatives who are a little closer
While lockdown measures vary from state to state, most of the time people are allowed to leave their homes to lend support to a vulnerable relative. If you’re worried about an elderly loved one but aren’t able to be close to them it may be worth calling other relatives who are a little closer and may be able to drop in just to assure you that everything is okay.
Check-in via video chat
There was a time when video chat was inaccessible to older generations who are less computer savvy than their kids and grandkids. In the smartphone and tablet era, however, it’s easy for technophobic elderly citizens to video chat with their loved ones. Schedule video chat sessions, or at the very least regular phone calls, to make sure that in this time of great isolation the people you love don’t feel alone.
Send them a care package
No matter how old we are, we all love getting a package in the mail. What better way to show someone that they’re loved and cared for than by sending a care package. Pack a few self-care essentials, a few treats and maybe even a few photos of yourself and your family to let them know that you’re thinking of them.
Even if you can’t be with them right now.
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