2020: A Year of Challenge and Isolation for Seniors

2020 has been a year of challenge for us all. But, if you are a senior citizen, you may have been challenged more than most. After all, the coronavirus has put older citizens at higher risk. Sadly, the need to self-protect has lead to increased isolation, which is particularly hard on seniors.

If you are a senior, you have probably spent a lifetime building healthy relationships. Precious relationships. And now, due to the pandemic, those treasured relationships have been constrained. Protecting yourself is extremely important, but it has come at a cost. A big cost. If you are feeling isolated, lonely, or disconnected, it’s totally understandable. But, there are some things you can do to help ease your loneliness. As a Senior Real Estate Specialist, one of my priorities is helping to improve the quality of life for my senior clients. So, here are just a couple of suggestions that might ease the sense of isolation you may be feeling due to the pandemic:

1. Consider Connecting Online

Products such as Zoom, Facetime, and Google Meet help you stay in touch with family and friends.

2. Try Online Gaming

Online games can provide a mutually enjoyable way to interact with friends and even those grandkids. AARP has a collection of senior online games such as chess, puzzle games, brain games, word games, card games. My personal favorite is Words with Friends.

3. Be a Pen Pal

Studies show that the act of letter writing has tremendous benefits for both the writer and the recipient. Perhaps now more than ever. Check out the Snail Mail Social Club.

I’m sure there are many other ways to stay connected. The point is to be intentional about making those connections. Be creative. Try something new. Don’t allow the current situation to keep you from connecting with those you love. And, look for opportunities to make new friends. The pandemic has definitely challenged us and changed us, but it can’t keep us from finding new and fun ways for social interactions that are so vital to our emotional and mental health.