5 Ways to Keep Occupied in Senior Living During the Coronavirus Epidemic

As we all know, Coronavirus has greatly impacted the world and our day to day functions. The government recently suggested social gatherings be limited to 10 or less per room. Due to this, senior living communities are having to curtail social activities such as exercise classes, card game groups, meals in the common area, etc. that were once conducted on a daily basis.

So, what can you to do stay engaged and not socially isolated in senior living during the Coronavirus epidemic? North Star Senior Advisors is happy to share ideas to show we are there in spirit and still care.

Old Movies

This is honestly the perfect time to put on some comfy PJ’s and hit the sheets or lounge chair for a movie marathon! Old films are the best like Gone with the Wind, Wizard of Oz, Casablanca, and Sunset Boulevard to name a few. Most senior living communities have a popcorn machine, so have a staff member make enough for everyone and pass out to individual rooms. While exercise is important, a couple hours of watching TV won’t do any harm.

Scrapbooking

For those that are crafty, scrapbooking is a great activity to not only stimulate the creative side of the brain but put together something that’ll last a lifetime. Gather photos of your friends and family and arrange any way you like with quotes or stickers. You could also assembly a hobby or shadow box from a craft store that your loved ones can come back to again and again. Put in items that work with their current hobbies like sewing, paint tools pictures, etc.

FaceTime Book club

If your grandkids love being read to, set up a Facetime call or any type of video platform session where you can read to them aloud. You can order their books online but make sure to use all the same platform so all family members can be on the same story time call. Older kids can make the call similar to adult book clubs and have the grandchildren talk about what they have learned each time. Or if would like to create a book club with friends within the assisted living community, have a staff member set it up so you can pick a book and set up a video chat to discuss the plot.

Coupon Cutting

My father loves to cut coupons and still does it every day. He once used so many coupons, the store owed him money back. It’s honestly a great way to pass the time and SAVE money. Who doesn’t love saving money? Several of these coupon ads can be mailed to you in the senior living communities. Make sure to sign up for Sunday Coupon inserts or email the manufacturer directly. They will send you free coupons and sometimes even send free products. Although we should limit the number of grocery store visits at the moment, you can instead order groceries online via Instacart to be delivered to the assisted living community. Just add the coupon code to your order to get the discount!

Fresh Air

Due to the limitations on gatherings, all activities with others should be avoided.  This does not mean, however, that you cannot leave your home from time to time to get some fresh air. If you are mobile and not around others, a brisk stroll outside will do your body and mind wonders. There may be an area outside the senior living community with a walking path that you can go on if no one is around. If you are unable to leave the home, make sure to open as much windows as possible to get some sunshine.

Senior living communities are on the front lines of the coronavirus caring for your loved ones and their own families every day. Thank them for their care as they cannot work from home. It may be a good idea to find out what is needed or what they are allowed to receive and gather items to be dropped off.

For more information regarding COVID19 and senior living, visit COVI9 and its impact on Senior Living or call 407-796-1582.