Help your parents combat loneliness during the second wave of Covid-19 with these 5 tips

Coronavirus cases are rising rapidly and currently, the situation seems to be much worse than last year. Many places in the country have announced strict restrictions and weekend lockdowns. The lack of socialisation and interaction is going can lead to loneliness in elderly who are also highly susceptible to the virus. The isolation coupled with health anxiety can take a toll on our parents.

How do you find out if your ageing parents are feeling lonely?

Well, the feeling of loneliness amongst the elderly is quite common and can happen due to multiple reasons such as:

• Loss of a spouse
• A close friend passing away
• Decreased hearing or vision
• Living alone

We already know that the elderly are highly susceptible to the coronavirus pandemic and hence, are advised to stay indoors. Due to this, their contact with friends and family also becomes limited. Your parents and grandparents might miss daily activities like walking in the park or going to the market to buy essentials. But, you have to ensure they don’t feel lonely and can overcome negative feelings.

Here are 5 ways to alleviate loneliness in elderly amidst the coronavirus pandemic:

1. Listen to what they say

We all wish for someone who would listen to what we have to say, hear out our problems and pay attention to what we’re sharing. In addition, you can also bond with them by taking out the time to do certain activities with them such as cooking, watching movies, and listening to songs. Simply spending time with them can uplift their mood.

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2. Encourage them to take up a new hobby

The most simple way to help the elderly in your family cope with the emotional effects of social isolation is to encourage them to get involved with a new hobby! Ask them their interests, what they did as youngsters and if there’s something they wanted to pursue but never got the chance to. When they begin the process of learning, their mind will shift its focus from negative feelings. Indulging in a new hobby will prove to be an interesting change for them.

3. If you stay away from your parents, try to visit them regularly

When you’re away from your parents, maintaining frequent contact is important. Calling them or having a video chat can be helpful but nothing compares to actually being with them physically. Visiting them, while observing precaution, can alleviate feelings of loneliness and provide them with emotional support.

4. Adopt a pet for your parents

Having a pet is a proven way to combat loneliness. Your parents will get a playful companion and they will experience an instant mood upliftment. In addition, taking the pet out for walks will encourage exercise. Overall, having a pet in the house can be an extremely positive experience.

5. Meditation can help

When we meditate, our mind calms down and anxiety levels drop. Meditating, even for a few minutes in the day, allows one to deal with their problems, fears and negative feelings. Suggest meditation to your parents to help them deal with any negativity and develop a positive mindset.

We all have to support each other through this pandemic!