The dreaded Covid-19 has caused unprecedented uncertainty impacting vulnerable people throughout our community. Working together, while keeping isolated we can flatten the curve and help our most vulnerable survive the virus – we’ve also put together our top 5 tips you can do to help your community’s vulnerable beyond self isolation.
1. Help out with their weekly grocery shop
Now that it’s advised for all New Zealanders to self isolate, visits to the local supermarket to pick up the essentials should be kept to a minimum. When you go for your usual food shop, think of those nearby who are less able to or are more ‘at risk’ and ask them if they’d like you to pick them up anything they may need. If your loved one is in this position, offering to pick up their weekly groceries could really make their day!
Remember though, there’s no need to over stock or panic buy – you’ll just be taking food and essentials away from those who may need it urgently.
2. Teach them how to stay connected with their loved ones!
Self isolation is becoming a great way for kiwis to learn new skills and now is the perfect time to teach nan and pops how to FaceTime, skype or zoom so they feel more connected (if they aren’t already!). You can even do this from afar with text message instructions or by sending them a link to an instructional youtube video.
Calling your loved ones during times of solitude is so important for your wellbeing and seeing their smiling face on the other side of the phone will be worth it. Once connected, use this opportunity to ensure they’re up to date with any important news they may have missed easing their uncertainty.
3. Write them an email
Our senior citizens often live on their own, with a spouse or in retirement/nursing homes which can make them feel even more isolated when they’re forced to stay put. Send them an email to let them know you’re thinking about them, write them a story or poem or send them a new recipe to try out followed by a delivery of ingredients to make the meal.
Another idea is to send them links to news articles that they might find interesting or a company newsletter that has insightful articles and information. Bay Tours weekly newsletter sends inspiration for your next adventure directly to your inbox which you can sign up for through the Tour club registration form.
4. Call them routinely for a chat
Set a time to call them at least once a week to see how they’re doing. Ask if they need anything taken care of – some gardening perhaps? Ask them how their week has been and how they’re occupying their time. Offer some advice to keep the boredom at bay.
This routine will give them something to look forward to each week and some consistency in such uncertain times.
5. Plan an adventure in the future
Get them excited about a future where covid-19 is in the past. Help them plan their dream holiday away, make a list of the local restaurants you want to visit when you’re free to wander again, buy a voucher for an activity you can do together once their reality returns to normal. Any of these activities will have them dreaming up new ideas for what they can do when they’re out of isolation, exercising their mind in a positive way.
Let us know what your ideas are for how we can help those more vulnerable in our community by leaving a comment below.
