Keeping The Elderly Active During A Pandemic

Sheltering at home orders and self-quarantine can leave the elderly feeling bored and isolated. That can lead to emotional and physical deterioration. Here are some ideas to keep seniors active in an assisted living facility.

Get Crafty During Quarantine

Arts and crafts are an excellent option to help seniors get creative and focus. Immersing themselves in an art project allows them to forget their troubles for a moment and enjoy working with their hands.
Possible activities include:

• Coloring
• Creating decorations
• Making cards for loved ones
• Crosswords and word searches
• Jigsaw puzzles
• Card games
• Gardening – potting plants for their rooms

Create a remote travel club and watch programs about different countries. Plan activities and crafts for each country, like creating decorations to match the country’s flag.

Have Fun At A Distance

Just because we’re social distancing doesn’t mean we can’t have dance parties or karaoke nights. Organize group activities and have residents participate from their doorways. You can still play certain card games and bingo from a distance too. It will keep everyone safe while allowing for much-needed socialization.

Stay Active In Isolation

Exercise is a vital part of a person’s health, especially during a pandemic, when we become more sedentary. Find simple exercises, like walking facility grounds, to get residents up and moving safely. Dancing is another low-impact way to have some fun and burn calories.

Group strengthening sessions can also be conducted from residents’ doorways. These muscle-toning exercises may only require them to use their body weight. They can also use lightweight household items for an extra challenge.

Help Them Contact Loved Ones

Since facilities are not allowing visitors, helping residents stay in touch with their loved ones is essential. Teach them how to use FaceTime, Skype, or Google Hangout so they can catch up with their family and friends.

Having the chance to talk with others is a good distraction from self-isolation and allows seniors to stay in the loop with their families. Starting a pen pal program is another option to help residents socialize safely.

Embassy Healthcare is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of our residents and staff. Contact us online or call 888-975-1379 for information on our COVID-19 safety precautions.