Tips on Coping With Isolation

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Hello Friends,

How are you coping during this difficult time?

I’m doing well but I realize how much I miss human contact in the form of physical touching. I live alone. I am fortunate that I come to work daily and get to interact with coworkers.

This is great, but I am a hugger and not having hugged any of my friends or family in so long is difficult. Not to mention I don’t even have my cat to snuggle with.

I know many of you have similar situations so what are we to do?

I found this article on Tips on Coping With COVID-19 Isolation. I hope it helps and please share with me what you are doing?

Be Well,
Anisa

Quick Tips For Older Adults Experiencing Social Isolation…

  • Find or keep a sense of purpose. Take up a hobby such as growing an herb garden, crossword puzzles, knitting, or other activities.
  • Age-appropriate workouts can help you not only stay in physical shape but in mental shape as well. Gentle exercises such as walking are suggested. It is always recommended to consult a healthcare professional or primary care physician first.
  • Manage medication. Do you have enough to last you for the next 30-60 days? If you need help managing medications, contact your doctor or a loved one who can help you.
  • Keep a routine that includes consistent sleep/wake cycles. Incorporate talking to family or friends in that routine. Whether it be writing them a letter or calling them on the phone.

Quick Tips For Families…

  • Stay active, and do it together! Walk the family dog, take a bike ride, or a walk together.
  • If your church has temporarily closed, check-in with them to see if they are offering virtual services that your family can attend together from home.
  • If you have kids home from school, make a video (on your smartphone!) and send it to a loved one who lives far away. A fun interactive way to simply say, hello.

Quick Tips For Caregivers…

  • Take five to refuel. Make a list of things that help you relax and take 2 to 3 breaks throughout the day.
  • Call or write a friend who can lend a sympathetic ear, make you laugh, and remind you that you are not alone.
  • Pursue other interests. Hobbies, sports, crafts, and other pursuits are not frivolous. They help you clear your mind of worry – if only briefly.

How To Care For Yourself…

  • Nourish your body. Ensure you are eating a balanced diet and drinking plenty of water. If produce is hard to come by right now, check to see if local farmer’s markets are delivering.
  • Take a break from the news. Although it is important to stay updated, it is recommended to take at least a 15-minute break.
  • Stay connected to your loved ones or a mentor using your phone, or applications like Facetime or Skype to speak to them virtually.

In Closing…

Ryan Hastings, Program Director at Kirby Senior Life Solutions, says “It is important to find ways to connect and engage in activities to help mitigate symptoms of anxiety and depression during this time. We put together these quick tips to share with our communities and hope they will encourage self-care and support.”

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