Older people are already at risk of being lonely but with the isolation of the coronavirus they may become even more sad and lonely. This is particularly true for older people who live alone.

As live-in carers in lockdown we now find ourselves in a constant battle to keep things on an even keel with our client.

Whereas before you may have taken your client out to the cinema and garden center, right now, this may not be possible. In fact, it may not be possible for your client to leave the house for several weeks due to being vulnerable and in the high-risk category.

Even missing casual events such as card games with friends and book clubs, or visits from family may leave your client feeling emotionally confused, not to say how it will leave you, with no chance of getting home to family for some months.

Keeping busy and occupied during this time may be extremely difficult for both you and your client, but it is something that you should look at if you are to keep yourself and your client positive.

What can you do to keep occupied?

Try something different

Question your client about things that they used to do or things they always wanted to try. This may include crosswords, or scrabble.

Adult coloring books are wonderful things for older people to improve dexterity skills and keep their minds occupied. Even carers enjoy these books and they are a great way to relieve stress.

You can still order craft supplies online so ask your client what she really likes to do. Modelling clay is easy for most people to shape, and no-bake doughs are a good way to spend some time creating.

Exercise

If your client is relatively active, there are exercises that he or she can do from the armchair. Even light exercises while standing will help to pass the time, keep your client active and improve mental attitude.

You may even be able to exercise beside your client, or certainly when you are on your break. There are online classes aimed at people of all fitness levels.

Perhaps your client could join you in some exercises to manage stress like meditation and easy yoga? Simple breathing exercises done twice a day not only passes the time but gives them something else to look forward to.

Grow seeds

Most people will be able to do this on a sunny windowsill. While you may have to handle the tiny seeds, your client can water and watch them grow, before planting in the garden.

Looking forward to seeing plants and then flowers will take a little time and keep them occupied for a little time each day.

Get online

Hopefully, your client has internet access! There are plenty of interesting things to see online. You can visit museums online and watch concerts. Check out some webcams at national parks if your client is interested in animals.

Some clients may enjoy games of scrabble or watch quiz shows like Wheel of Fortune. There are several webcams where you can see eagles and their environment.

If your client in interested in the sea, then look for a webcam of aquariums, there are several of these to watch – and all for free!

Basic tuition for simple things such as making pom-poms may appeal to your client, and you will find these readily available using YouTube.

Plan a day out

People, particularly older people get bored with empty days, not surprising. Planning something for when you can go out again gives them something to look forward to. Plan the entire day somewhere that they enjoy with lunch at a favorite spot and coffee afterwards.

Plan a party with their loved ones or close friends. Design a menu and have your client give some suggestions.

When people have something to look forward to, they may be less inclined to feel down.

In conclusion

Both carers and clients need to take care of their health, and it is important that we keep ourselves occupied at this time when going out may not be possible.

Even if it is for only a short time each day, you should try to be apart from your client (such as in your room while they sleep) and do something for yourself.

Use this short amount of time to relax and recharge your own batteries. If possible, get out into the garden, call a friend, read a book. Whatever you do, keeping yourself occupied will ensure that you stay positive and mentally healthy.

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