Times are difficult for many right now, especially as summer heats up and people want to enjoy picnics and the company of their own family and friends. Fortunately, many people understand the importance of staying safely apart as the need for social distancing continues. This, however, doesn’t mean your family and friends need to drift apart or you can’t find other ways to connect – it just means you may need to get more creative!
“Social distancing is very hard for many people,” says Mike Silverman, Chief Executive Officer of Heritage Pointe, a senior living community offering exceptional lifestyles in the Jewish tradition. “People simply aren’t meant to spend a large amount of time alone, not communicating or connecting with others. In fact, we know exactly how important connection can be for health, confidence and happiness. This is why we strive to ensure our Residents are enjoying fulfilling days while staying in touch with those they hold dear as well as our team and other Residents.”
“We are finding that by getting creative in how we interact with Residents, teaching them how to connect with technology and by encouraging them to keep a positive outlook and an open mind, that they are remaining truly happy,” he says. “Not only has this helped, but so has being in a caring, supportive and comfortable environment. This has ensured they have the peace of mind of safety and security. All around, our Residents are feeling secure and equipped to handle whatever comes next in spite of social distancing.”
How You Can Stay Connected to Loved Ones During Social Distancing
At Heritage Pointe, we know that staying away from your older family members can be hard, but we are here to help. If you find yourself missing your loved one and would like to see them, talk to them or even brighten their day by doing something nice, we can help. Try some of the following ways that we’ve seen our Residents’ families and friends connect with them during social distancing.
Find New Ways to Get in Touch
While you may not be able to get together face-to-face in person, there are plenty of ways you can still see or talk to your loved one! We’re helping Residents schedule video chats with friends and family, enjoying virtual events and talking on the phone. Some are even enjoying connecting over texting, messenger apps and email! Residents are frequently updated with photographs and videos as well! We’re here to help make it all run smoothly for them, so if these ideas interest you, we can help to facilitate it!
Have Fun at a Distance
Video chat software has made it possible to do a wide range of activities online! From book clubs over video, watch parties hosted during your favorite television show’s airing, playing an array of games and so much more – there’s plenty of ways to have fun and connect while staying safely apart! If your loved one isn’t comfortable with video chatting, it’s also possible to download and play a variety of games that you can enjoy together – and bond over!
Make Days Special with a Surprise
While there’s nothing better than connecting with friends and family by talking and laughing together, it’s still possible to show your love and add a level of surprise and fun to their days! Consider trying one of these ideas to help your loved one feel appreciated, missed and happy during the days of social distancing!
- Compile a list of good news from the day or week to share with them so they can enjoy all the good that’s happening in the world.
- Get the whole family involved and create a photo album with special messages inside.
- Send them a movie basket with a feel-good movie from their past, comfortable new pajamas and some slippers and have them watch the movie. Be sure to watch the movie too so you can chat about it the next day!
- Make them a customized gift basket with a variety of things to do such as puzzles or coloring books.
These are just a few of the many ways that you can connect with your loved one during this time. For more ideas on how to stay connected during social distancing, or to hear more about how our Residents are enjoying peace of mind each day, feel free to contact us! We would be happy to help! Call us today at 949.284.8980 to talk to a member of our team or to schedule a virtual tour!
ROOTED IN JEWISH TRADITION & CULTURE.
Founded more than 30 years ago, Heritage Pointe provides the highest quality assisted living and memory care services to seniors in Orange County. Welcoming to those of all faiths, Heritage Pointe is Orange County’s only community rooted in Jewish culture, tradition and values.
For those who need some level of support to live their best lives, Heritage Pointe inspires independence and wellness through an extraordinary lifestyle, high-quality care, and rich traditions. It’s a trusted, joyful community offering a lifestyle filled with possibilities – wherever a Resident may be on their senior living journey.
Our one-of-a-kind, nonprofit community is open to people of all backgrounds and faiths. Our mission is focused on our Residents and their independence, health, safety, comfort and happiness. Heritage Pointe has deep roots in this community and is committed to providing Residents with the best possible lifestyle and care both now and well into the future.