Everyone is experiencing loneliness and grief associated with the pandemic, but especially those who are older and live alone.
It is easy to assume there is no antidote to feeling isolated and unmoored. Or rather that the alternative: getting out a lot is a death sentence. Fortunately, things are not so black and white. There may be ways to meet very real needs for connection while also minimizing risk. Of course, as we age, it can feel daunting to try something new or get outside one's comfort zone. But consider the alternative: endless pacing alone around one's house with nothing on the calendar to look forward to.
Sometimes even just trying one new thing can begin to turn the train around. Here are some activities that may help get you out of your rut:
- Find new (safe) ways to celebrate old traditions.
In the photo that accompanies this article, a neighborhood dance troop comprised of women between the ages of 56 and 86 surprise neighbor Peter Rumsey with a performance for his 80th birthday.
Start a walking club or join one.
A walking club can not only provide exercise for our bodies, but also socialization, accountability and fun. To start your own, all you need is one friend or neighbor who is interested. There are also many existing ones in the Triangle, each catering to different needs and interests. Of the more than 30 in this area listed on
MeetUp. There is one for widows or widowers, another for seniors, one for birdwatchers, and many for women. Walking clubs can be found through your local Y, Silver Connections, neighborhood listservs, and churches. Set a time earlier in the day to avoid more crowded paths and the heat and take a mask.
Sign up for an interesting class.
Certain life events--a death, a divorce, a fatal diagnosis, addiction, caregiver burnout--can interrupt a joyful life. Getting together with others going through a similar challenge and sharing stories, resources, and support can help you get back on your feet. Check with Resources for Seniors, Transitions, your doctors' office, Dementia Alliance or your church to find
Check in to see if your church (temple or other faith-based organization) offers new resources in this pandemic.
In addition to making services available online, some have added daily devotions online, support groups, call-in Sunday School classes and provided
Serve others in need.
Acts committed with kindness, large or small, not only help the person in need; they also benefit the giver. Whether its putting a card with a hand-written note in the mail to dropping off an extra portion of your homemade dinner, making a call to a shut-in or leaving a bouquet from your garden on someone's porch, this can really make someone's day.
Join a virtual book club. Call your local bookstore to inquire. Learn a new technology that can help you connect.
Ask your friends how they are using technology to connect or visit
AARP's section on new personal technology.
Keep trying new things.You're never too old to try something new. And who knows where it may lead? On the other hand, we all know exactly where inertia leads.
