While remaining isolated is not something typically encouraged for seniors, there are times when it’s a must. The rapidly spreading outbreak of the novel coronavirus, also referred to as COVID-19, is one such time.
Being forced to remain in your house for any length of time can set you up for some unhealthy behaviors if you aren’t careful. That’s why it’s essential to commit to caring for yourself in mind, body, and spirit. Here are a few creative ways to do so when you can’t leave home, or can only do so sparingly.
Wellness in the Time of COVID-19
1. Eat well: While most of us feel entitled to a few treats and comfort foods during times of stress, it’s important to continue eating healthy foods. Even if you do allow yourself a few indulgences, make sure you balance it with good nutrition. It might be easier to stay on track if you stock the freezer with healthy, make-ahead meals. Another option is to subscribe to a meal delivery service, like Silver Cuisine or Freshly.
2. Stay active: Being cooped up indoors might put you at high risk for becoming sedentary. Try to stay active and avoid sitting for long periods of time. YouTube is packed with exercise videos you can use to work out at home, such as those featuring chair yoga and resistance bands. The National Institute on Aging has a wide variety of senior-friendly fitness activities you can workout to on their website. From balance and strength training to endurance building, you can take advantage of their extensive online video collection.
3. Connect with people: When you are forced to remain at home, technology can provide you with a means for communicating. Video chat with family and friends using Skype or FaceTime. Facebook and other social media channels also make it easy to interact with your social circle no matter where they are. Set a goal to check in with two loved ones each day to help you maintain a sense of connectedness.
4. Stay engaged: As people around the world are forced to self-isolate and practice social distancing, businesses and nonprofit organizations have stepped up to create opportunities for nurturing the body and spirit. Most are being offered at no cost. You can take a virtual yoga class, follow a ranger through the National Park System virtually, join virtual tours of museums, zoos and aquariums, and theme parks, or take in a free, online performance by artists like John Legend, Keith Urban, Garth Brooks, and more. Check with local museums, zoos, and others to see what they might be offering during this time. If you belong to a religious organization, call to see if they will be streaming services. Many are using Facebook to stay connected to their communities.
Tour a Sunrise Community Virtually
If your plans to begin visiting senior living communities have been put on hold during this time, schedule a time for a virtual tour instead. The team at Sunrise Senior Living can explain how it works. Call the community nearest you to learn more today. Be sure to ask about the Sunrise COVID-19 safety measures and how we plan for emergencies of all kinds when you call.