Caretakers and Distancing - Physical But Not Social
There is a reason the World Health Organization (WHO) called for a shift in terminology in a briefing on March 20, 2020. Rather than using “social distancing” to describe avoiding large gatherings and maintaining 6 feet between people, infectious disease immunologist Maria Van Kerkove advised “physical distancing” as more accurate. Why? Because the need for social connection remains crucial —it is the way that we maintain the mental health of ourselves and of our loved ones.
For those caring for for individuals already isolated by health or age factors, figuring out how to “socialize distantly” can be a challenge. Beyond turning to some of the social online technologies, picking up the phone, and sending a note in the mail, there are other ways to reach out. Some of these might include
Invite family members, church friends, or neighbors to join in your caretaking efforts through cards or calls.
Drop by for a physically distanced visit on the porch.
Suggest a book or movie that you both might enjoy and then talk about.
Use this time as an opportunity to interview them long distance on the StoryCorps Connect site: https://storycorps.org/participate/storycorps-connect/
Engage them in a project in which their expertise or skills might be helpful - a home repair project, a baking challenge, or family history.
The Orange County Department on Aging has some other suggestions for “Caring from a Distance” that include moving bills and other accounts online to allow easier long-distance support, and being aware of the support resources in your area.
Links to helpful articles below may help you develop a range of ways to connect with and support someone you love through a potentially lonely and disorienting time. We may be physically apart, but we can build meaningful interactions with some effort and creativity!
https://www.cnn.com/2020/04/15/world/social-distancing-language-change-trnd/index.html
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/1/#inbox/FMfcgxwJXLkRwqzBHjqHcHGZbGvMMtDz