Preparing for a Covid Christmas

One of the hardest things we’ve faced during the pandemic is isolation and loneliness. Keeping a safe distance from loved ones is difficult.
This is especially true of older family members with kids and grandkids at safe distances. 

We all understand it comes from a place of love and protection with the elderly at higher risk of getting a severe case of COVID-19. Unfortunately such self-isolation
takes its toll on mental health. Studies show that social isolation and loneliness are serious public health risks that affect a significant portion of the older adult population.
Finding ways to include your isolated loved ones this Christmas is not just about their feelings, but their health as well.

 
hero-grandmother-holiday-video-chat.jpg
 

The Coronavirus pandemic may change the way your Christmas looks,
but you can get creative and find new ways to celebrate.
It’s time to create a few new traditions that you might find
returning in happier years to come.

 

Virtual Celebrations

One of the best ways to stay connected is through video conferencing applications like Zoom. Once installed on a laptop or tablet, it is as simple as clicking an emailed link to see the smiling faces of your loved ones. 

This offers an incredible opportunity to include your isolated loved ones in your Christmas celebrations at home, allowing you to break bread with one another and continue your traditions. Try a virtual Christmas lunch or dinner. Set a place at one head of the table with all the bells and whistles so they can see everyone and feel the seasonal spirit.
Think of preparing the meal in advance and getting it delivered with a Christmas cracker and hat for an extra special shared experience.  

Interactive games and activities like gift exchanges can create beautiful memories and make the distance feel insignificant. Give each member of the family some screen time as they open their gift. A few rounds of charades after dinner will add laughs to the experience and include everyone.   

Reading a favourite holiday story, singing carols, or putting on a play are all still possible despite the challenges. It really is up to you how creative and fun the virtual Christmas is.

A wonderful addition to gifts are cards and letters, handwritten for your loved ones in isolation. Ask each of your family members to write a message, sharing news and how much

The staff at Le Domaine Care are more than just experienced caregivers, we believe that care is a calling. Our staff pride themselves on the privilege of supporting our residents with more than just practical necessities but in making our residents feel at home. At Le Domaine Care we believe in creating a community of support and we look forward to continuing that support over this festive season.  



Wendy Bezuidenhout