Page 19 - Leisure Living Magazine: May 2020 Edition

Connecting With Loved Ones
By Theresa Bowen, Ph.D., Email - theesajb@gmail.com
Many caregivers and family members are stressed because physically visiting their loved ones in memory care units during Covid-19 restrictions is not allowed. There are many strategies that are currently helping caregivers and family members
and safest way for seniors to
connect with their family.
It includes calling, sending
photos, games, music, email, internet articles and more. I worked on one this past winter and I was
to practice social
distancing but still
connect with their
loved ones. While
the health crisis
continues FaceTime,
Skype, and Facebook
Messenger are reliable
ways to connect
with your loved one.
Apple’s FaceTime is
available on iphones,
ipads, and Mac
computers to other
Apple users simply
by touching an icon
while making a phone
call. Unfortunately
it is only available
between Apple users. There is no FaceTime on Android users/phones but there are several apps available to make video calls to people using android or iphones. The only requirement is both smartphones have to have the same app.
Skype (owned by Microsoft) was one of the first video call apps invented in 2003. It has been around for a long time and has become better and better. I have used Skype to chat with my adult children, grandchildren, and friends. I have also been on Skype for several online job interviews. It works very well. Skype can be used on both of the operating systems for Apple and Microsoft.
Facebook Messenger allows you to make video calls on almost any operating system too. There are dedicated messenger apps for IOS (Apple) and Android smartphones. The extra step for anyone is to make sure both family members and loved ones have the right/same app installed. Then you will be able to make video calls to just about anyone.
Grandpad (grandpad.net) is becoming very popular. It is touted to be the smartest, simplest,
very impressed with its capabilities. It does require a month to month fee. For more information and details see their web site at grandpad.net
If you are caregiving at home it is recommended to still be as calm as possible and try to stick to your daily routine. Posting hand washing signs or notes to wash hands for 20 seconds is important and can help. It might also help to sing a song with your loved
one. Suggestions include: Happy Birthday, Row Row Row Your Boat, and reciting the ABCs. Make it fun! It is important to have a Plan B if you or your loved one gets sick. Plan to have a backup family member or friend to take your place. Keeping hydrated is always important because it fortifies the immune system. Take a walk outside if you can for a breath of fresh air. A breath of fresh air helps everyone’s mood and may lower stress levels for you and your loved one. A walk outside is recommended as long as you keep your distance from others.
If you have any questions about combating isolation, keeping your home properly clean or stress release for caregivers, you can contact the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America by calling their helpline 866-232-8484. You can also go to their website alzfdn.org and have a web chat through the blue and white icon in the lower right-hand corner. If you prefer text messaging you can text the AFA with your questions at 646- 586-5283. The AFA provides support through services and education to families and caregivers.
Tips to connect with your loved one during the social distancing of Covid-19.
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