May 19, 2020
How to stay connected from a distance.
While the COVID-19 pandemic has affected everyone around the world, seniors are feeling the weight of isolation deeper than some others. Since they’re at high risk of infection, it has become important that extra precautions are taken to limit their exposure to COVID-19. Families may be nervous to visit their grandparents and other loved ones for fear of exposing them to the virus, but connection is essential for mental health and happiness. Luckily, the internet of things has made it easier than ever to stay in touch with those we love the most. Find out how you can virtually stay connected to your senior family members throughout the pandemic.
Video Chats
Family time doesn’t have to be compromised because of social distancing. Video conferencing platforms such as FaceTime, Zoom and Skype make it possible to see your loved ones face-to-face no matter where you are in the world. Set up virtual family nights with your older loved ones to play games, chat over breakfast in the morning, or have the grandchildren show off their latest art projects. Being able to see your family on-screen and interact as if you were in the same room can make a world of difference during these socially distant times.
Smartphones
iPhones and other smartphones provide another great, easy way for connecting face-to-face. Whether you’re at home or on the go, you can easily connect with your loved ones over the phone using FaceTime. If you don’t have an iPhone, downloading WhatsApp on your smartphone offers the same quality experience. It’s free and easy to use. For those living in a different country than their family members, both options allow you to connect via wifi to avoid long distance charges. Just because you can’t physically be with them, doesn’t mean you can’t see them. Being able to do quick check-ins with your grandparents and other older relatives can let them know you’re thinking about them.
Social Media
Social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram offer a great way to share meaningful moments with your loved ones. Family members can interact with messages, photos and videos for regular updates. From family photos to a baby’s first steps, grandparents will never miss a minute again. If your older loved ones are new to social media, you can easily help them set up an account over a video conference. Once they get the hang of it, they will be able to share snapshots of their lives as well.
Homelife Care
Many seniors prefer the freedom of independent living and rely on care from their adult children. However, caregivers may not be able to see their parents as often as they’d like. And with COVID-19 limiting interactions, they may worry about their loved ones living on their own. Cox Homelife Care is a medical alert system that offers both seniors and their caregivers peace of mind with 24/7 professional monitoring. This system features an automatic Fall Detection Pendant, a Family App and a Mobile Hub that allows for two-way communication. It ensures seniors can carry on living independently and confidently knowing if an emergency occurs, help would be on the way and caregivers would be alerted.
Caring for our senior loved ones means staying connected, even when we can’t be physically close. With these virtual options, you can keep up on everything happening in each other’s lives. Whether for routine activities or unexpected emergencies, it’s easier than ever to feel like you’re face-to-face even when far away.
