Taking Advantage of Being a Homebody

With the new world of quarantine and isolation that much of the nation is experiencing right now, staying home is not an option.  Isolation has been implemented to contain and prevent the transmission of COVID-19 across the nation and social isolation has become the norm. By restricting the movement of people, we hope to see fewer deaths and less stress on the current health system.

Some people love being at home and many truly enjoy being alone. But for the majority, the mandate to stay inside and not being able to control the situation is unsettling. We don’t realize how social we really are as humans until that contact is denied, reduced or diminished. What are some ways that all of us can take advantage of being a homebody while not losing our connection with others?

• Check in daily with someone. Whether that be a friend, a family member or another loved one, make sure someone knows you care about them. Set up a daily group text on your phone to stay in touch with family and let everyone know you are well.

• Limit watching the news. Although it is important to remain up to date with changes, limit the fearful drama that creates stress.  Watch but don’t worry, and invest more of your time in positive or productive media offerings.

• Take a class. The internet is full of learning opportunities!  Here are just a few things you can do to stretch your cultural understanding and learn a bit:

• Sproutflix, the only distributor of films exclusively featuring people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Is offering their educational films free.

• With many arts organizations and concert hall closing their door, there has been a surge in free classical music performances offered.  Here is a list of great performances and concert libraries that you can enjoy from home.

• Become a Pen Pal. Reachout America has a pen pal program especially designed for seniors.  You can sign up to be write or receive letters on their site.  Brighten someone’s day by writing a letter or make a new friend by receiving one.

• Stay fit by exercising at home. Planet Fitness is offering free Facebook fitness classes every day to help you stay fit at home.

• Go to Church online. Because of social distancing, most churches have developed a way to broadcast services through Facebook live or through their website.  If your church hasn’t gone online yet, ask a friend to share a link with you so you can continue to be spiritually encouraged.

• Engage on social platforms.  So many people are communicating through Facebook, Instagram, and other social platforms, especially now.  CRISTA Senior Living is on Facebook and we would love to have you connect with us there.  Stay connected with your community and loved ones through social media.

Being a homebody does not mean disconnecting socially.  In fact, now more than ever, we need to stay in touch with the people that matter to us.  As we enjoy the peace and freedom of solitude, let’s take advantage of the many opportunities we have to connect every day.

CRISTA Senior Living is connecting & celebrating generations through grace, compassion & inspiration, you can find out more at www.cristaseniorliving.org