You can give back to your community during this trying time. Many organizations are seeking donations, encouraging people to write cards or letters, or even just to go and visit homebound seniors–in a socially distant and responsible way, of course. The isolation of being homebound was a huge issue before the pandemic. Now that the pandemic has made people far more aware of just how tough being socially isolated from others can be, there is a growing call to action that is bubbling up because of that increased awareness.
All around the U.S., organizations have rallied to help seniors that have been hurt by the coronavirus. Churches and youth organizations have delivered supplies to nursing homes and assisted living facilities. Schools have helped ensure that families are receiving enough food to get by. Countless individuals have given their time, money, and energy to make sure that the older individuals in their communities have enough attention, help, food, and more.
The COVID-19 pandemic has been devastating for many people. But it’s also brought out the best in a lot of us. Many are putting others before themselves in a way that they have never done before and it is having a tremendous impact on those around them.
If there isn’t a local organization near you that is helping to organize these things, maybe that’s a sign that you are the person in your community that could help rally support for homebound seniors. If you’re not sure where to get started, call your local senior services office. They will let you know if there are any local regulations that you need to be aware of, point you toward the organizations that might already be providing these services, and help with other advice about getting started. Your county’s main government building can help you find this information, too.
If this doesn’t sound like the type of project you want to take on, there’s nothing wrong with that. Spending five minutes writing a letter can still make a huge difference in someone’s life. It puts a small dent in your time, but makes a world of difference for someone who is struggling because they are homebound.
Perhaps you have an older loved one that has difficulty leaving the house. If so, there are extra things that you can do to help them out, even if they live on the other side of the country. Technology has made it so that it’s easier to connect than ever before. Call or video chat with your loved ones a few times a week to remind them that they’re not alone. Send them letters, or even bake cookies and send them out in the mail. There are a lot of things that you can do, even if you’re far apart.
It’s the little things that can help homebound seniors feel loved. But sometimes homebound seniors need a little bit more help. This is where in-home care can be a help. If you’d like to learn more about how in-home care can help, please let us know.
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