The global Covid-19 pandemic has caused a surge of isolation and loneliness in the elderly population. However, as vaccinations roll out among all ages and society enters the post-pandemic phase, it is both safer and vital to the well-being of the family unit to reconnect with aging family members. Due to government-mandated lockdowns and social distancing efforts during the height of the coronavirus pandemic, most older adults irregularly interacted with friends and loved ones outside of their household. In fact, social interactions of once a week or less were common.

The senior population has the greatest risk of severe illness from being infected by the coronavirus. Older individuals who are fully vaccinated, however, reduce their risk of Covid-related hospitalizations by 94 percent. To date, in Illinois, 75 percent of seniors over age 65 are fully vaccinated. Vaccinations continue to be administered to individuals of all ages. Due to the lower rate of infections in recent weeks, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has issued new coronavirus health safety guidelines. Fully vaccinated people may safely start to resume certain everyday activities. Face masks and social distancing are no longer requirements, except when mandated by federal, state or local laws and regulations. Travel restrictions have eased; people may travel domestically without being tested for the coronavirus before and after travel; and self-quarantine after travel is unnecessary.

The CDCs relaxed guidelines allow society to gradually reopen. All ages benefit from a return to normalcy. The senior population, especially, will welcome the chance to interact with family members, whom they may not have seen in person since the start of the pandemic.

While older adults are likely to feel overjoyed at the thought of reconnecting with loved ones, doing so may require them to step outside of their comfort zone. After all, society has endured several months of shelter-in-place and social distancing efforts.

However, seniors should realize that feeling anxious about resuming interactions with others outside of their household is normal. It is equally important to understand that isolation and loneliness are known to have long-term effects on well-being and can be causes for depression.

The best way to start getting back out into society is to stay updated on the latest health safety guidelines. The CDC offers a wealth of information and what is safe and unsafe in the post-pandemic world. Knowledge of safe activities allows seniors and family members to feel more confident.

Get Outside

A safe way for family members to reconnect with elderly loved ones after months of isolation is to join them on walks or hikes outdoors. The companionship reduces stress and improves overall emotional well-being. Being outdoors on a sunny day naturally boosts mood.

The fresh air of the great outdoors disperses infectious coronavirus particles. Plus, the ultraviolet rays of the sun destroy airborne viruses. These two factors make it unlikely that vaccinated individuals enjoying the outdoors will become ill with a Covid-19 infection.

Travel

Traveling safely in the post-pandemic era is possible due to the fact that millions of Americans have been fully vaccinated. Fully vaccinated family members may safely hop on a plane to visit an elderly loved one, and know they have a low risk of contracting a coronavirus infection.

Despite the reassurance about traveling safely after the pandemic, it may still be unsafe for kids. Children under 12 in Illinois have yet to be vaccinated. Grandparents may have to wait to see their grandchildren until early next year when kids under 12 are eligible for vaccination.

Volunteer

Family members who live in close proximity to their aging loved ones can jointly contribute to the local community via volunteer efforts. Volunteering together offers bonding time for seniors and family members, especially when they feel safe enough to be in public.

Seniors and family members may organize donations at a food bank. Or, they may deliver meals to the elderly who are housebound. Any form of volunteering offers the chance to connect with others who share similar values and goals. Plus, volunteering simply lifts the spirit.

Connect Virtually

Family members may connect with aging loved ones virtually, too. Video chats and Skype calls were utilized frequently in the midst of the pandemic. Various technology platforms can continue to be used in the post-pandemic era to connect daily with seniors.

A lunch date via Skype will bring a smile to a senior’s face. A virtual meeting with the whole family via Zoom will be welcomed by all. Grandchildren have the option to Facetime games with grandparents. The grandkids might even teach their grandparents a new skill via video sharing.

While the means to connect with aging family members after the pandemic are growing in proportion to the increasing rates of vaccinations, some households may be challenged. These families may turn to Assisting Hands Home Care for invaluable elder companion care services.

Our home care agency is staffed with a team of compassionate companion caregivers who are skilled in serving as reliable companions to seniors who lack social outlets. Seniors who live alone or who are physically impaired will find immense relief in our companion care services.

We build strong bonds with our senior care recipients by initiating conversations about their hobbies and life experiences and engaging them in fun activities. Our companion caregivers are essential in the fight to deter loneliness and social isolation in seniors who live alone or are immobile.

In addition, our professional caregivers provide assistance with a range of personal care activities, such as bathing, grooming and toileting. We are available to prepare balanced meals, shop for groceries, provide transportation to doctor’s appointments, and perform light household chores.

Families that are unable to provide daily social support to elderly loved ones are encouraged to choose Assisting Hands Home Care for quality companion care services. We serve seniors who live in Palos Heights, Illinois, and its surrounding communities. Call us for a complimentary in-home consult.