HOW SENIORS CAN NAVIGATE STAY-AT-HOME ORDERS & BEYOND
June 1st, 2020
Living under stay-at-home orders can provide some unique challenges for everyone, including seniors. Until those orders are lifted, there are steps that we can all take to help prevent the COVID-19 virus from spreading.
Here are some practical tips to help navigate stay-at-home life and beyond:
UTILIZE GROCERY DELIVERY SERVICES
There are several grocery stores that provide delivery service. This enables you to get the groceries you need without unnecessary exposure to potential germs. In addition to specific grocery stores, there are some delivery services like Instacart that deliver from a number of different stores.
USE ONLINE SHOPPING FOR ESSENTIAL ITEMS
Even after stay-at-home orders have been lifted, theres still reason to consider limiting exposure to large numbers of people at places like grocery stores and other retail outlets.
Not everyone has the money to do so, but if you do, consider ordering basics in bulk online. Several sources like Amazon, Costco, Target, Walmart enable you to purchase items such as toilet paper, paper towels, tissues, and more online. Buying items in bulk can come in handy when essential products are in short supply due to the pandemic.
TIPS FOR WHEN YOU ENTER YOUR HOME
Immediately upon returning home from shopping or doing other errands there are things you can do to further protect you and your loved ones.
- Put your shopping bags and/or handbag in a dedicated, out-of-the-way corner or near the door, limiting their contact with the rest of the home
- Remove shoes and/or wear dedicated indoor shoes or slippers
- Wash your face, hands, and forearms
- Clean your mobile phone with a 70% alcohol wipe
- Remove rings and/or bracelets before washing hands and dont wear them while in the house in case virus particles may be hiding on or under them
STAY IN CONTACT WITH OTHERS
During stay-at-home orders it may be easier to remember the importance of remaining in contact with loved ones through telephone calls, video chats, emails and even writing cards and letters.
As there is an easing of restrictions, however, seniors may find themselves feeling more isolated than before as life and work start back to normal for many people.
Thats why its so important for seniors and their loved ones to continue reaching out both during this time and in the days, weeks and months ahead.
STAY ACTIVE
Find an exercise or activity you enjoy and then commit to stick with it because the effects can be physically and emotionally beneficial.