HANOVER — Starting today, there is a “The Unofficial Hanover Township Senior Citizens” Page. Click here to view the page.
This information hub will give the community opportunity to engage with updates and connect with local seniors.
5 Ways to Combat Social Isolation
This last year has been a tough one for all of us. Among the many losses we’ve had to endure is human connection. So how can we manage to stay socially connected in a time when we’re being told to keep our distance?
Here are five ways we can maintain the relationships that mean so much to us – and ensure we stay physically healthy, too.
1. Stay in touch through technology. We may not all have the “latest” equipment, but we can stay in touch with loved ones through the phone and on the computer. If you’re a bit more tech-savvy, Zoom and video chat with family and friends on a regular basis. Staying connected is key – even if we can’t visit in person.
2. Pursue a hobby at home. Do you appreciate music? Fill your home with the sounds you most enjoy! If crafting is your thing, revisit your old favorite pastime and crochet a blanket for a new baby or hone your woodworking skills and make a gift for a grandchild. Hobbies can give us goals to achieve and purpose to our day.
3. Get outside. Spring is coming. The snow will soon be gone. Social distancing doesn’t mean you have to stay inside. Take a walk, sit on the porch, wave to your neighbors. This is the perfect time to think about cleaning up your garden and planting seeds. Being outside in the fresh air can be great exercise – for your body and your mind.
4. Dial down the bad news. Too much bad news can be overwhelming. So let’s not let it get to us. Consider tuning in just once or twice a day for only 10 or 15 minutes. Then turn off the news and focus on activities that help you stay happy and positive. Talk to friends about reading the same book or watching the same movie so you can group-chat online about it later.
5. Adopt a pet. According to the National Institutes of Health, pet owners often see their heart rates, blood pressure and stress levels drop. Over the long term, pet and human interactions can lower cholesterol levels, fight depression and anxiety, and may even protect against disease and stroke.
In weeks to come, we’ll have more information about staying connected with technology-assisted communication. Stay tuned!
