Coronavirus affects all different ages and types of people around the world. Although, the primary group that’s affected is seniors – ages 65 or older. At an older age the immune system is less effective at fighting infections. Also, the chances of having other conditions increases the likelihood of exposure.
During these difficult times self-isolation and social distancing is the best choice for seniors. Even though this is the best option, it can be extremely hard on seniors being in the house for such a long period. Younger people can be the helping hand in these times of need.
1. Give A Helping Hand
Providing help to your close family is the number one priority during this time, but we can also provide help to the senior community. Call your local senior living home to see the ways that you can help. It can be anything from donating personal protective equipment to supplying meals.
In addition, senior centers are planning outreach, grocery delivery and other connections to community resources. Some have creative volunteer programs like friendship lines where you can call seniors you don’t even know.
2. Providing Meals
COVID-19 has put seniors at an even higher risk for hunger due to isolation and vulnerability. Meals on wheels programs are crucial for ensuring a lifeline for seniors during these times. Each week that passes puts more seniors at risk for hunger, so supporting local hunger organizations is crucial.
Meals on Wheels also has a COVID-19 response fund, which you can donate to here as does FeedingAmerica, which helps tackle food insecurity felt by all ages. There are many more organizations working to provide for seniors right now, including local food banks. Browsing Charity Navigator is a great way to find legitimate nonprofits in virtually every category.
3. Providing Further Assistance
If you’re helping a senior family member who’s on a tight budget to meet their dietary needs, make sure they’re receiving all the benefits they’re eligible for.
The National Council on Aging has an abundance of information on various senior benefit programs including Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, which provides electronic cards that enable low-income seniors to buy select food at participating stores.
4. Donate blood
If you can’t donate money right now, then donating blood is another option for a charitable act. Hospitals currently have low blood supplies – you help seniors who are not only at risk for COVID-19, but other conditions. Having a stocked blood supply will be beneficial to all.
Fairmont Grand Senior Living Community
Fairmont Grand is a resident centered senior living and memory care facility in Rapid City, SD. Our goal is to create an environment where resident well-being is at the heart of everything we do.
Our wide range of services are designed to meet you or your loved one’s daily needs. We offer restaurant style dining options, a variety of physical activities, and give residents the opportunity to live as independently as possible.
If you or a loved one near Rapid City, South Dakota are considering assisted living or memory care, contact Fairmont Grand to learn more about individualized living options or tour our community.
