Back to: HELPING OLDER GENERATION TO SURVIVE
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Staying in touch
Being close at a distance
Plan a routine
Settling yourself and the older generation into a new routine of talking and seeing each other over the internet is a must. Some people plan virtual meals together with a tablet in front of them. An early morning check-in on each other. Chatter your way through shared TV shows. Be creative. Remember always that what is natural to your generation about modern technology is not for many in an older one. They may need to have apps downloaded and installed and explained.Multiple methods
Not all communication has to be through the internet! Phones still are an easy uncomplicated way of talking. Learn how to conference people in to a call so that distant relatives and friends can join. Social distancing is sad for both grandparents and grandchildren. Closing the gap virtually between them requires careful planning. Some ideas were in a recent article from Harvard Health.Prepare for challenges
Plan what to do if the person gets infected. Plan what to do if their immediate caregiver gets infected. Prepare for possible hospital admission, perhaps getting a bag ready with essentials:- Cellphone and charger
- Reading glasses
- Hearing aid and batteries
- A few days medications in a labeled plastic bag with a list and directions. Keep an asthma aerosol separately.
- List of conditions and allergies
- Contact information for physicians
- Signed copy of advance directives (leaving one at home or with a close relative)
- Contact information for next of kin and for a translator if needed
- A change of clothes suitable for hospital wear