Social distancing does not have to feel like a jail sentence. But when you are feeling socially isolated and caring for a loved one with dementia, it can certainly feel like it.
How can we navigate the changes in both our lives and theirs? Perhaps your loved one enjoyed attending a group, a center, eating out or going to the gym with you. Perhaps you were able to flee the house for a few hours and do self-care things. Now as we navigate COVID-19, we are called to adapt. Technology can be an asset.
If you are intimidated by technology, now is the time to use the good old-fashioned phone and call a friend, a neighbor, a son or daughter and ask for help. Not only will you gain from the connection to your helper, you will be challenging your brain to learn some new and useful tools.
Did you know that every day since Coronavirus has spread, resources for connecting have increased? From the singing Italians who sang to one another from open windows during the first days of isolation, adaptation and creativity have been highlighted. Children’s book authors offering free YouTube drawing lessons, virtual tours, free concerts, carry-out and delivery from your favorite restaurants, are some of just a few resources that have blossomed.
Whether you have a tablet, a home computer, a smart phone, even a regular phone—there are ways to connect that will help brighten your days despite the new guidelines for isolation.
There is a short list of resource locations on this site’s landing page that might make days with your loved one a bit more pleasant.
If your local support group or memory café is no longer meeting, join Dr. Cate on Zoom. At catemccarty.com you can join weekly support groups and a variety of memory cafes that include reminiscence, exercise and camaraderie.
Many of your local professionals are offering virtual options. Support is a connection away. Do not let technology keep you away. Reach out to learn how to use it. Social distance technology might bring you closer than you have ever been before.
