Staying Social Throughout Social Distancing

COVID-19 has significantly altered our lives. Social isolation is the new norm, and we must all practice it. Staying indoors and to ourselves can help prevent the spread of infection and ease the burden on our hospitals by reducing the number of new patients. And we all require functioning hospitals. As social creatures, however, it is difficult for us to isolate ourselves.

Consequently, how can we socialize in this era of social distancing? Here are some of the most prevalent considerations.

Can Children Host Playdates Or Just One Friend?

In a pediatric study, 13% of children with coronavirus were asymptomatic. Unfortunately, even your neighbor’s kid who looks healthy could have the virus. He may have also met someone with it. Playdates have been somewhat off-limits.

Can We See Grandma Now That We’re Not Sick?

Another “nope.” The elderly are especially at risk for getting sick, and because anyone can be a carrier, it’s best to avoid grandma. You can Facetime or Skype them. Visual interaction can be better than on the phone. Encourage them to take a solo stroll, but instruct them not to touch anything and to wash their hands afterward if grandma is healthy.

Can I Take A Stroll With A Friend?

Maybe. If you and your friend are symptom-free and don’t have underlying health issues, you could do that if you stay 6 feet apart. Don’t touch or share their water bottle. A recent walk with a neighbor was a nice “getaway,” but we followed these rules. I may invite her for coffee on the porch; we’ll sit 6 feet apart and use paper cups to reduce exposure.

How Else Can I Interact Socially?

We are extremely fortunate to have communication technology, unlike the times of the Spanish flu or polio. Participate in a video conference call with your coworkers to see their faces. Visual communication (seeing facial expressions) is vital to human interaction, and this can help you feel less alone. Have visual calls with family and friends; it’s great to see others, even through a screen.

Is There Anything Else That Can Help With The Feeling Of Social Isolation And Symptoms Of Loneliness?

According to research, one way to feel more connected is to show compassion for others. Many people are currently in a difficult situation as industries such as restaurants and retail stores are closing their doors, leaving many people unemployed.

As schools are currently closed, life is very difficult for the one in four families that rely on school lunches to feed their children. Can you and your neighbors provide assistance? When you go grocery shopping, are you able to determine if anyone needs food and deliver bags if necessary? Kindness benefits both the giver and the recipient.

Social distancing can feel like social isolation, but we can attempt to bridge this chasm by engaging in the aforementioned activities. It is difficult to be in this situation, but we must all contribute to the safety of ourselves and others.