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By John R. Merlino Jr. Esq.
Founding Attorney

The past year has been one for the books, for sure. The persistence of the COVID-19 pandemic has changed our lives on so many levels. Unfortunately, the social distancing measures, while an integral part of keeping our loved ones safe and healthy, has had some intended consequences. For instance, the elderly population, at risk for feeling isolated even under the best of circumstances, has started feeling more isolated than ever. With friends and family under tight restrictions from visiting, your elder loved one may have been feeling increasingly lonely and isolated during the pandemic. Here, we want to give you some tips on how you can help your elderly loved one feel less isolated during the pandemic, and beyond.

Ways to Help Your Elderly Loved One Feel Less Isolated During the Pandemic

Fortunately, advances in services and technology have allowed us to all remain connected even when physically apart. It is time to start capitalizing on this to make sure your elder loved one remains feeling connected to loved ones. Give them simple tutorials on how to use zoom and schedule FaceTime chats with them to make sure you have consistent contact with them.

You may even want to consider pointing them in the direction of resources to occupy their time. For instance, did you know that you can rent audiobooks and kindle books through the library? All you need is to go online and sign up! This is a great resource for those who enjoy reading or listening to a good story. It can be a fun and enriching way to pass the time.

Sometimes, the best way to brighten someone’s day is just by showing them that you are thinking of them. Think about sending your elder loved one a care package. You can include some of their favorite treats and some printed pictures of your family. If you have kids, get them in on the fun and have them make some artwork to send in the care package.

There is also the tried and true way of getting to someone’s heart through their stomach! Consider sending Uber eats or grocery delivery to your elder loved one. This will not only show how much you care but will also help ensure your elder loved one is taking care of themselves nutritionally.

If you live in the area, try and arrange for a socially distanced, outside visit with your elderly loved one. The fresh air will do everyone some good and an in-person smile and wave, maybe even an air hug, can really be uplifting.

Estate Planning Attorneys

Now more than ever, it is important to make sure your elderly loved one is okay. In addition to doing your part to help your elder loved one know he or she is not alone, you may also want to consider helping them by making sure they have plans for the future in place. A comprehensive estate plan is something everyone should have. At Merlino & Gonzalez, our team of trusted estate planning attorneys can put solid plans in place that can bring you and your loved ones peace of mind about what the future holds. Contact us today.

About the Author
John is a fierce advocate and the office guru for problem-solving and brainstorming. He guides clients through every stage of a real estate transaction from offer to contract, navigating through nerve-shattering home inspection and title clearance concerns, maintaining constant contact with lenders, conducting the actual closing, and continuing to advise clients with regard to any post-closing concerns.  John brings a practical and fair-minded approach to the process which has earned him the respect of his clients and peers.