Across Minnesota and much of the world, we are living in a temporary new normal of caution, quarantine and social distancing. But with the Governor’s recent stay-at-home order in place, it is imperative we remember that social distancing does not and should not equate to social isolation, especially for our seniors.
Most seniors remaining independent in their homes get assistance with daily life from a family member, neighbor or friend. Not only do these informal caregivers provide help, they also provide connection.
Because older adults are perhaps most vulnerable to COVID-19, concern over spreading the virus has created a barrier for families and many community support systems in place for the care of older adults. Much of the support that seniors rely on isn’t possible to deliver via traditional means.
“During this time, families have to be extra organized and communication has to be efficient,” Krystal Wiebusch, LSW said. “We have to adapt our services to keep our seniors safe, while also ensuring that they remain connected. Senior isolation is dangerous.”
Our Licensed Social Workers are now connecting remotely with the older adults we serve, as well as their family and friend caregivers. Especially now, finding resources to help navigate COVID-19 is critical for older adults and their families while also working to alleviate senior isolation through remote counseling in a time of social distancing.
One tool that remains efficient and helpful for families to stay connected and informed, especially as they care for an older adult during this uncertain time is Carenextion.org. CareNextion is our website for families and other informal caregivers, where they can find resources and create a care team to manage schedules and update others on the progress of someone receiving their care. This service is completely free to users.
The Senior Outreach & Caregiver Team of Social Workers are working diligently to find the best essential services and resources still available for seniors and families during this difficult time, and ensuring that they’re readily available on CareNextion. “We personally update and add resources to our CareNextion site and want you to be able to find the best options in your area,” Wiebusch said. “We’re all using technology more to stay connected during this period of social distancing, whether that’s Zoom or FaceTime, or CareNextion.”
After all, though we may have to physically distance ourselves from one another, keeping each safe and connected still means coming together as a community.
To read about the changes made to all our services due to COVID-19, click here
