While we are social distancing due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s more important than ever to try to stay connected with our friends and family, even if we’re not able to see them face-to-face. Luckily, thanks to today’s technology and social media, we are able to stay together and share experiences, even when we are not able to physically be together. Here are some ways that you can stay in touch with those you care about.
Use Video
As we are unable to meet in person, using video to connect to one another is a great way to maintain our relationships. FaceTime, Zoom, Google Hangouts, and other programs are great resources to video chat with family and friends. Set up a daily meeting with friends you miss, or simply ‘drop-in’ to check on them. There is also a new app called ‘HouseParty’ that allows multiple people to video chat at the same time, as well as playing virtual games with one another.
In this uncertain time, you can get creative with how you use social media. Ask your grandchildren to sing their favorite songs, have a virtual ‘happy hour’ with friends, read a book to younger family members- using your imagination, the possibilities can be as innovative as they are endless to connect us all.
And remember, even with all of these applications, you don’t need to get fancy, a simple phone call to check in can help lift the spirits of one you love and care about.
Write a Letter
With the extra time you have, and all the emotions you are going through, there is nothing quite like writing a handwritten card or letter to those you love. You could write a poem, draw a picture, or maybe include some photographs of happier times. Even just a short postcard is a meaningful gesture. If you are without stamps or envelopes and don’t feel comfortable getting more, e-mail is fine too!
Have Dinner Separate, but Together
As we acclimate to social distancing as much as we can, we are still going to miss the opportunity for human connections. Why not set up a ‘dinner date’ with a neighbor? Set up your lawn chairs at least six feet away and share some conversation and eat your dinners while maintaining social distance. And if you wish to share a meal with a loved one who’s far away, set up your video chat! You can set up your device on the kitchen table and chat away as you enjoy your food.
Play your Favorite Games Online
Whether your favorite game is a board or card game, there are easy ways to play online. Many sites and apps will allow you to play your favorites alone, or with other players. You can find Uno, Solitaire, and many others online. A great game to play that will keep your mind active and have fun with friends is, fittingly enough, called “Words With Friends.” A quick internet search for whatever game you’re interested in will yield many results for you to play your way through.
Join an Online Discussion Group
Different online forums, such as www.seniorforums.com, allow older adults a fabulous opportunity to connect with one another and to chat about basically anything. If you’re a bookworm, there are also online book clubs you can join. If you were already a member of a book club that met in person, consider moving your discussions online to continue to engage with your friends.
Find the Bright Side
In this tough situation we are all in, being positive can help. Send a funny picture or joke to friends. Share a positive news story you came across. In this time of a lot of negative news, being a ray of sunshine can bring some brightness to your loved one’s day and let them know that you are thinking about them.
A Quick Hello is Just Fine
You may be in a mood where you don’t have much to say. You can’t think of anything interesting to share, and that’s ok too. Just saying ‘Hello’ can let someone know you’re thinking of them. Even a quick text to let someone know you are thinking of them can really make someone’s day.
We’re all in This Together
Remember, as we all are navigating this uncharted territory, a lot of us are feeling the same way. Staying in touch with those we most care about, or talking with people who share similar interests, will help us remain connected to one another. Reach out to those who need help, check in with those you care about and we will all get through this together. And please, if there is anything we at Solimine Funeral Home can do for you, please don’t hesitate to reach out at (781) 595-1492.
Receive our Newsletter
Email: 
Leave a Reply 0 comments