March 24, 2020 | Connectedness, Healthy lifestyles
Everyone’s routines are changing unexpectedly, which means a lot of uncertainty and also a lot of opportunity to do things differently–or to do different things–than we typically would. Many entities are going live and/or online to reach people in the comfort and safety of their own homes.
We recommend staying healthy and staying home if you are over 65 and/or have chronic health issues, but we also recommend staying connected. These unique, sometimes live and in real-time experiences may help you and your older loved ones stay connected to the wonderful world beyond your doorstep, and also to each other:
- Learn something: San Diego OASIS offers classes for older adults on subjects from the stock market to historical events to languages to book clubs. Read course descriptions online at oasisnet.org.
- Listen to something: Many artists are live streaming concerts and musical performances. Click on the link to see a current list available from National Public Radio.
- Do something: The YMCA has 60 classes available online, offered for free, no membership necessary! This includes yoga, tai chi, and three of their classes only for older adults. Visit the YMCA website to get moving.
- Watch something: The Metropolitan Opera will stream a different encore presentation of regarded performances from the past 14 years at 3:30 pm PST, and it will be available until 12:30 pm the next day, for the duration of the Met’s closure due to the coronavirus pandemic. Enjoy at metopera.org.
- Take a break from everything: The Center for Mindfulness, Compassion and Resilience at Arizona State University is hosting virtual meditation practices from 12 noon – 1pm, Monday through Friday, to provide a space for connection and community for the foreseeable future. There are options to call in to participate, or join through the app Zoom. Learn more at ASU.edu.
Remember, it’s ok if your loved one chooses to watch or participate silently. Use these activities to be present together, to inspire curiosity, and to simply incorporate some joy into the new routine.