Five Things To Do During Self-Isolation

Due to the rapid spread and outbreak of COVID-19, this has resulted in the masses having to self-isolate for long periods of time. While this is an extremely necessary practice in order to minimize the spread of COVID, quarinting yourself can result in feeling isolated from society, or like they have no sense of routine. One might also feel as though their relationships are not the same due to isolation.

The list of unpleasant feelings associated with self-isolation goes on and on. However, currently, it is important to recognize that millions of people may be experiencing similar feelings. It is not uncommon for self-isolation to lead to extreme feelings of loneliness. It is natural to miss your routine of seeing your loved ones on a daily basis, whether you live with your partner, children, or roommates who are self-isolating with you.  

COVID-19 is a disease that is a risk to us all. However, the risk is much higher among older adults and seniors. Aging seniors are at the highest risk, as their immune system is much weaker than younger people. This means that if they contract COVID, they may require intensive care, hospitalization, or a ventilator to aid them in breathing. Sadly enough, many deaths have resulted from aging seniors getting the coronavirus. It is recommended that aging seniors and people in high risk groups take the extra care and precautions to protect themselves from COVID-19. This means that minimizing social interaction and self-isolating needs to be taken seriously by our aging loved ones. 

Unfortunately, because our aging loved ones cannot live as socially as they used to, many seniors are experiencing heightened feelings of loneliness. Although self-isolation is protecting seniors from physical health risks, seniors may be sacrificing other negative symptoms, both mentally and physically. For example, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, poor social relations, which is characterized by loneliness or social isolation, was associated with a significant increased risk of heart disease and stroke.

Additionally, it is suggested that social isolation can considerably increase a person's risk of premature death from various causes. This can include obesity, physical inactivity, and smoking. Social isolation and loneliness can also have a large impact on a seniors mental health. Loneliness is highly associated with higher rates of anxiety, depression, and suicide. 

With all this having said, there are steps you or your aging loved one can take in order to stay connected socially, while you are self-isolating. Below are 5 things you or your loved one can do during self-isolation that can minimize the effects on your physical and mental health. 

1. In-Room Gardening 

Many people believe that plants have the power to heal. We can feel peace and joy through simply looking out the window at a tree, or holding a beautiful bouquet of flowers in our hands. There exists scientific evidence that proves that interacting with plants can be very beneficial to mental and physical health. Luckily, gardening can be an activity done not only outdoors, but indoors as well. In addition, a person at any age and skill level can reap the benefits of in room gardening. Plants that can easily be grown indoors include cacti, violets, wandering jew’s, begonia’s, spider plants, rosemary plants, and aloe vera.

In-Room Gardening

2. Video Chats

Since many seniors may be unable to physically see their close family members and friends while self-isolating, utilizing modern technology will allow aging seniors to see their loved ones virtually. Chatting with our loved ones through video platforms may be more beneficial to them, rather than simply calling someone. Using video calls humanizes both parties and. Additionally, seniors will likely feel closer to their loved one through visually seeing a person through not just verbal, but non-verbal communication as well. Chatting with loved ones can easily lift the spirits of aging seniors as they experience the interactive and immersive aspects of video chat platforms such as Google Hangout, Skype, Zoom, or Facetime.

Video Chats

3. Virtual Book Clubs 

Seniors may have had certain social hobbies that were part of their weekly routine and kept them feeling connected, such as book clubs. However, just because in-person activities for seniors have been postponed, doesn't mean that elderly people cannot participate in group activities such as book clubs in creative ways. Fortunately, technology can allow seniors to take their book clubs online. Here, weekly group video chats can take place to discuss the latest chapter of a captivating novel. At the same time, seniors are able to see a few familiar races and catch up with them.  

4. Live Streamed Exercise Classes

In order to stay healthy, it is essential for seniors to stay physically active on a daily basis. While it is important that aging seniors stay physically distanced from others, there are ways in which they can participate in organized physical activity classes from the comfort of their homes. Although many gyms, fitness studios, and exercise classes have been forced to shut down all over the world, many have adapted to this new covid-reality and have shifted their services to online. Seniors can not only get in their physical activity, but feel more connected to others by joining a live stream fitness class.

Many live streams are also tailored specifically to seniors. For example, you can participate in classes such as yoga for seniors with arthritis, or join a senior cardio class. Classes filmed through live-steam, while having participants turn on their cameras can enable a greater sense of community. With having said this, there also exists countless pre-recorded classes that can be found on platforms such as Youtube, Facebook, or Instagram. 

5. Baking and Cooking

Many people have always had the goal to fine-tune their baking and cooking skills, but have never found the time to immerse themselves in trying out new dishes and recipes. Seniors with an interest in cooking, baking, or just food in general can take the time to make a recipe that they have always wanted to try out, whether it is a delicious baked good like a warm apple pie, or a warm and savoury dish such as a curry thai soup. Baking and cooking has been studied to be associated with a mindful practice known as ‘grounding’, and this refers to one using an activity to help connect you with the present moment. Grounding yourself in cooking and baking has many therapeutic qualities that can help minimize feelings of stress and anxiety.