Helping the Elderly During COVID-19
Due to the threat of COVID-19, our elderly populations are facing more isolation than ever before. If you are looking for ways to help the community during this uncertain time, consider some of the following to help our senior community members who are the most at-risk:
Donate or Volunteer with Seniors First
Seniors First is Orange County’s Meals on Wheels program – a local organization that delivers food and healthy meals to seniors at their homes, allowing them to live independently. Seniors First is currently seeking food donations due to COVID-19. All items are welcomed, but the pantry is always in need of protein – including canned meats, peanut butter and protein drinks such as Ensure and Glucerna. View a full list of items.
Seniors First is also looking for monetary donations and volunteers for deliveries. For more information on how you can help, visit https://secure.qgiv.com/for/senfirqgiv/.
Stay Connected
One of the most effective ways to communicate with your loved ones is through video conferencing. It is the safest way to achieve face-to-face interaction while also maintaining social distancing.
Make it easy for family and friends to make and receive video calls by setting up their devices in advance. Here are some helpful guides for popular platforms to get started:
- Facebook Messenger
- FaceTime (Apple devices only.)
- Google Hangouts
- Skype
- Zoom
Write a Note
With the current social distancing mandate, hand-written letters are another way to keep in touch with your loved ones. It is important we continue to make our seniors feel connected to their families during this uncertain time. A card or letter is a simple gesture that will let them know you are thinking of and love them.
You should also consider leaving a postcard with elderly neighbors that includes your contact information in case they need assistance.
For more information about #COVID-19, visit www.ocfl.net/Coronavirus.