We hear very often life is about perspective. In a world full of uncertainty, especially for the most vulnerable in our communities, how can we help older adults? Is it possible to make a difference?
Without a doubt, the last couple of months were very challenging for everybody. Every family, every individual, is facing a different set of obstacles to overcome. Challenges ranging from reduced hours at work, unemployment, the fear of contracting coronavirus or the fear of overcoming the virus, isolation, depression, every kid in the country finishing their courses online, many milestones reached but celebrations short of what’s been accomplished, politics and the media taking us in different directions and polarizing our communities.
All very complex, imagine all this from the eyes of the older adults in your family, in your community. Isolation and depression have reached a new dimension. Older adults are the target of an invisible enemy. They are facing the fear of death, the fear of not seeing their loved ones again, or dying alone in a hospital bed, or their living communities.
It seems overwhelming. What do we do? Let us change our perspective; let’s focus on the positives. We have heard again and again; we are in this together! We have found meaning in helping each other. We have found solidarity in people who cook a meal for their neighbor, that is working extra hours in an improvised new job. We have found hope in the healthcare workers that put their own lives on hold to go above and beyond for those strangers that need them. We have found comfort in staying in touch with our loved ones, even if it is just a call, a Zoom, a text; we have learned to celebrate the simple things of life.
Despite all, we have learned that we can make a difference in acting. We can be especially helpful in making a difference in the lives of older adults in our community. One great way to help older adults is to contact the communities and send magazines, games, books, little things to help keep them entertained. You can donate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to assist healthcare professionals in taking care of them with optimal conditions.
At Residential Plaza, we provide an affordable home with assisted living services to 350 older adults in our community. At Residential Plaza, we allow them to live in a safe, caring, and supportive environment while maintaining their dignity, independence, and purpose. You can make a difference today, act. If you are interested in donating to Residential Plaza, contact Luisana Hung Salazar at lhungsalazar@atteinc.org.