Most of us are used to life in lockdown now and whilst we’re hoping that there will soon be a reprieve, it’s not guaranteed. There are also talks of short lockdowns later in the year to help keep Covid-19 rates increasing. If you have an elderly relative, particularly if they live alone it is important to make sure they’re looked after and here are our hints:
Do Some Shopping
One of the most obvious ways you can help is to get them their weekly shopping. You can even get them the odd Amazon delivery or a treat from a small local business if there are things that they need. The elderly are on the Government shielding list and as such, should be avoiding visiting places as much as possible.
If you’re able to get them some shopping while you do your weekly shop and drop it off to them, it’s a great way to make sure they’re looked after.
Make Sure They’re Well Connected
Keeping in touch is always a good thing. If they have any devices that you can video call on this can work even better. Sometimes when you’re ringing every day it can be hard to know what to talk about, especially if you’re isolating too, however, just the fact that you’re in touch will be an important part of their day so make sure you keep this up.
Look Into What Help is Available
Age UK Mobility should be your first port of call, as they have the most helpful resources and information relevant to your needs. It is worth making sure they are registered with their supermarket of choice, as most major supermarkets are registering vulnerable people so that they can get priority delivery slots for shopping. This means you can even do them an online shop and make sure their cupboards are stocked even if you’re not local.
You may even find that are local volunteer schemes that can help with the drop-off of items and pick-up of prescriptions etc. You may not need these, but knowing who to contact if you do is a good thing.
Have a Family Rota
You don’t have to make a strict rota, but just ensuring that you lean on the whole family for support is essential – remember, you’re just one person and you can’t do it all. Talk to the family and make sure that everyone is keeping in touch – grandchildren and nieces/nephews are bound to perk up their day so a rota where they can keep in touch is a good thing!
Keep Positive
Think on the good side. It can be hard not to dwell on how hard life is right now, especially with news announcements changing every day. When you do speak to your elderly relative, try to stay as positive as possible. Although none of us can help talk about Coronavirus, having ways to steer the conversation away from this can be a good thing too.
Talk about what the kid’s homeschooling has been like, how you’re finding it working from home or even a new recipe you’ve seen online – anything that keeps the conversation light-hearted and positive.
