Coronavirus has had a huge impact on the world. Countries all around the world have been forced to go into lockdown, with people isolating themselves from others to try and curb the spread of the illness. In some places this has worked, in others, it has been less effective, but there’s no doubt that we’ve all been affected by lockdown in some way or another.

The elderly have been affected greater than most. As those over a certain age are considered more vulnerable to the virus, most of them have been forced to stay indoors throughout the lockdown period, only able to go out to the garden for a little fresh air – if they have one. Nobody would enjoy this level of isolation and so, as we work together to overcome this threat, we should also think about how we can help the most vulnerable members of our society like the elderly.

Here are five ways you can make an impact and support the elderly during these unprecedented times.

Shopping and Prescriptions

One of the biggest difficulties that the elderly and the vulnerable face is the fact that they can’t go shopping or pick up prescriptions and medicine like they used to. Older individuals have been advised to stay indoors and self-isolate since lockdown first began, making shopping almost impossible unless they are confident with technology and can secure a coveted online shopping delivery slot.

You can help by offering to go on shopping and prescription pick-up trips on their behalf, saving them the stress of wondering how they can refill their cupboards. Just remember to disinfect your hands and stay safe whilst dropping off the supplies.

Gardening

If someone elderly is living alone during the lockdown and is shielding away from the rest of society, they may not be in a position to tend to their garden for one reason or another. Why not offer to take on some of the hard work in their outdoor space by mowing the lawn or, if they have artificial grass instead, sweeping up any debris or moisture on the surface and trimming any hedges and/or branches overhanging into the garden.

Painting the fence is another of those jobs that can be difficult and tiresome, even for those of us in good health. While you might have to bring your own refreshments rather than being able to accept a cup of tea or cooling lemonade right now, doing your bit for someone in need should more than keep you feeling good about yourself.

Provide Entertainment

I’m sure we can all report experiencing some level of boredom whilst stuck at home and unable to go out. This is even worse for the elderly who often aren’t even able to go for walks or leave the house to exercise. Staying sane whilst stuck indoors is all about entertaining yourself, which is why many elderly citizens would likely appreciate being provided with some entertainment.

In fact, care homes are even employing virtual music shows to keep their residents engaged and happy; yet, you don’t have to resort to that. Anything from a street cinema to an amateur theatre production or magic show with the children can provide much-valued respite for elderly citizens. Consider trying this out if you want to do something a little different for the older members of your community.

Offer to Chat and Be Available

There are some unbelievable figures surrounding the elderly and loneliness. Even before lockdown, a huge number of older people would go a full month without speaking to another person, which is simply unacceptable. People deserve social interaction, even if they don’t have the strength to leave the house or socialise. In the current times, this loneliness is probably even worse, which is why just being there for the older members of your community can make a difference.

Don’t be afraid to offer to chat (from a safe distance) or call on occasion just to provide some social interaction. This is a great way to update your talking partner on current goings-on as well as let them offload some of their nervousness or tension, which is normal in the time of a global pandemic. Potentially bring over some home-baked foods as well to make their life easier and to help strike up a conversation – it really is as simple as that; you’d be surprised what a difference these little gestures can make.

 

Hopefully, this has inspired you to go out into your community and bring a little hope and happiness to the elderly who are sheltered indoors. Together we can all make a positive impact during these uncertain times.