Tips for Staying Social While Social Distancing

Personal connection in a time of isolation can be challenging — especially for those with restricted mobility and accessibility. The coronavirus outbreak has made visiting loved ones, outings with friends, or even a trip to the store feel like an impossible mission. Although it’s tempting to ignore social distancing measures, it’s recommended as the best way to stay safe during the pandemic.

Since seniors are at a higher risk for complications, it is especially important for them to take extra precautions. While staying at a safe distance away from others can feel lonely and frustrating, there are many ways to remain social during this time of social distancing.

Start a Family Video Chat

Not seeing your family can be hard, especially during such an uncertain time. Luckily, we live in an age where you can see and talk to anyone in the world right from your smartphone or computer. Scheduling a time to chat with your family can ease the anxiety of being away from them. All you need to video chat is your phone or a computer and a place to relax. Here are a few applications and websites that are free to download and make video chatting easy:

• Skype
• Zoom
• Facebook Messenger
• FaceTime for Apple devices

Attend an Online Concert

Throughout history, music has been a constant unifier of people all over the world. Not only is music fun to listen to, but it is therapeutic and can reduce the symptoms of depression and anxiety. During this time many artists and organizations have been hosting free online concerts for fans to attend. There is everything from pop music to symphonies being performed online. Attending an online concert is a great way to enhance your mood, introduce some fun into your quarantine, and engage with artists and other music lovers online.

Play Your Favorite Games

What’s more fun than a game night? With games that make you think, to games that make you laugh, there’s something for everyone available online. There are apps you can download to your cellphone like Monopoly, Sudoku, Uno, Tetris, and Words with Friends, which is like a digital Scrabble. You can even access interactive games to play online with your family through apps like Houseparty and Facebook Messenger, or on websites like Arkadium.com.

Encore at Avalon Park Provides Safe and Social Care

The changes that have taken place during the coronavirus outbreak can be difficult on one’s overall well-being, especially for seniors. Encore at Avalon Park is making every effort to ensure your loved ones are remaining socially active during this isolating this time of social distancing. So not one of life’s precious moments is missed, we encourage and provide support for our residents to engage digitally with their family and friends while in our care. To see why we are the top senior living community in Central Florida, call us today at 407-270-7500 and schedule a socially-distanced virtual tour.