COVID-19 Precautions: 7 Ways You Can Keep in Touch With Your Elderly Parents Without Visiting in Person

The last few months have been very difficult for many people because of COVID-19. However, it has been especially difficult for senior citizens who are living on their own or in nursing home communities. With the many restrictions put in place for everyone's safety, family members have not been able to be together. Below is a closer look at how family members can visit with their parents or elderly family members without seeing them in person.

Visit From Afar

Although nursing home facilities are now allowing family members to visit, you can still come by the facility and see them from their window. To make sure that is alright, head to brandycare.com to check out the various rules and restrictions they have posted on their site. If they are okay with it, they can assist your loved one get to a window or doorway so that they can see you and talk to you for a bit. Although this is not the same as a one-on-one visit, your loved one will be very happy to see you.

Virtual Meetings

Virtual meetings have become very popular for family members to stay connected with others. The nursing home staff members will be more than happy to set the computer up for your loved one. This way, you both will be able to see and hear each other.

Telephone

One of the best ways to stay connected with your family is by speaking to them regularly on the phone. This is a great way to stay in touch and it allows your family members to hear your voice, and vice versa. Phone conversations are great because your loved one is more than likely able to make and answer calls on their own and do not need the assistance of one of the staff members.

Record a Message for Them

If speaking on the phone or holding a virtual meeting is too much for your loved one, consider taping a message to send them. This will not only brighten their day, but they will get the opportunity to see your face and hear your voice. They will be able to replay the message as much as they would like.

Write Them a Letter

There is nothing better than receiving a letter through the mail from your loved one. Until yo can see your parents again, consider writing them a letter and include some pictures for them to see. This is a sentimental way to let others know that you are thinking about them. Writing a letter is a great way to communicate, especially if your older parents don't have access to a computer.

Online Movie Night

Find time for your family to connect to watch the same movie. There are a variety of applications and streaming services that allow you to watch a movie together. To keep things simple, try to pick the same movie and everyone can watch it on their preferred devices. Then you can all chat via text messages or phone calls regarding the events of the movie or anything else you may want to chat about.

Send Your Loved One a Gift

Your loved one will enjoy getting a gift from you, especially if it is their favorite snack, treat, or book to read. This will let them know you are thinking about them and cannot wait to see them again.

COVID-19 has been very difficult for many families around the world, but it is the senior citizens who have been affected by it most of all. Let them know that you miss and love them as much as you can, and hopefully, this will all be over soon.