We’re all facing a very tough time. The COVID-19 pandemic has forced us to treat life very differently. We can’t take our health and safety for granted in ways we once did. Mask-wearing, for example, is highly touted as a way to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. Consider how much our elderly population is going through, at the moment. They are considered the most susceptible to the virus’ dangerous effects.
In addition to wearing masks, there are many other things we can do to offer our older generation the respect and support it deserves. In this week’s blog, we’ll examine just a few of them.
Share a meal together.
A couple of years ago, President’s Choice (also known as PC) ran a beautiful ad campaign known as #EatTogether. It showed strangers, who all lived on the same floor of an apartment building, sharing an impromptu meal together in the hallway. The ad made sure to show people of all ages and ethnicities. It was a wonderful sentiment. The kindness shared in the spot is one that elderly people should experience. It can be argued that there is nothing more kind than preparing a meal for and eating with someone you love.
“Eating together is one of the greatest social customs for mankind,” says Dana Larsen on APlaceForMom.com, “While nourishing your bodies, you also get to catch up and have fun. Whether you venture to a favourite restaurant, pack a picnic or visit your senior loved one’s home, try to eat together on a regular basis”.
Write a handwritten note.
There are numerous positive aspects about writing handwritten notes. Firstly, it speaks to the requirements had by many elderly people. When you hand over a note, it absolves him/her from having to turn on and operate an electronic device. The majority of older adults will thank you for that! Secondly, a handwritten note is a show of effort behind your kindness. It demonstrates the personal touch you wish to add to your sentiment.
Vista Prairie Communities suggests you write the note and mail it instead of delivering it by hand. “Everyone loves receiving unexpected mail, and your message of love is sure to bring a smile to their face,” their website contends.
Acknowledge them publicly.
Don’t assume that every older person has an aversion to the internet. In today’s world, there are few gestures that go unnoticed online. Send out a tweet, compose a Facebook post and share an awesome photo on Instagram, all with the intent of expressing how much you love Mom and/or Dad. If your parent isn’t online, show him/her both the post itself and all of the comments it will surely receive.
“Who doesn’t love public praise?” asks Visiting Angels, “Find a way to acknowledge the contributions of someone (to show your gratitude) in a public way…in your office, among friends and family, on your blog, or even in your local newspaper.”
At Advantage Home Health Solutions, we care very deeply about our older generation. Can we help you support the elderly loved ones in your life? To learn about our many accessibility and mobility solutions, please don’t hesitate to give us a call at 403-460-5438. You may also email us by filling out the form on our Contact page!
