Senior Social Distancing for the Holidays

With COVID-19 cases on the rise again, it’s clear that 2020’s holiday season is going to be a bit different than previous years. Because seniors are at the highest risk of contracting the virus, holiday plans involving older relatives may be up in the air. While it may be difficult to be away from our loved ones this year, it’s important to understand that social distancing is about keeping them safe. Read on for some valuable information about social distancing during the holidays, straight from the staff at Summerset Senior Living.

Are In-Person Gatherings OK?

While you may really want to gather with friends and family for the holidays, it is important to follow CDC holiday guidelines as you make your holiday celebration decisions. If you absolutely have to have an in-person gathering, masks should be worn when getting food and any time you’re not eating. Wash your hands before handling any plates, food, or serving utensils. Instead of eating at one big table, it’s a better idea to spread out or eat in shifts. And if weather permits, you should leave the windows open for adequate ventilation.

Before you plan an in-person gathering, remember that while CDC guidelines may permit small groups to meet indoors, it’s really not advisable. If anyone in your group has been experiencing cold or flu symptoms in the past week, or if they are immunocompromised, they should absolutely stay home, regardless of any social distancing measures you plan to follow.

A Remote Holiday Season

If you want to have a 100% COVID-safe holiday season celebrating remotely is the best option. By utilizing video conferencing apps, you can ensure that no one will be exposed to the virus during your holiday gatherings. While getting together over the computer may be an adjustment, it actually has some advantages beyond the social distancing aspect. First of all, you won’t have to worry about cleaning the whole house before your guests arrive. You also won’t have fight about who will be hosting this year. With a remote holiday, you can invite the entire family and nobody will need to make travel arrangements or spend hours at the airport.

Send Your Senior Family Members a Gift

For many seniors who look forward to seeing the family over the holidays, 2020 may be a lonely year. Video conferencing is a great way to spend some quality time with them, but there are some other ways you can show them you care. This year, consider sending a care package, photo album, or video just for them. They may not be able to see you in person this holiday season, but they will appreciate knowing that you’re thinking of them.

At Summerset Senior Living, we know that it’s important to do everything we can to protect vulnerable seniors from contracting COVID-19. It may not be easy to change up your traditions this year but it’s your duty to keep your loved ones safe. Check out our past blog posts for more senior social distancing tips and be sure to give us a call if you’re interested in finding a senior living community for someone you know. Call (916) 619-0494 to request an information pamphlet or to schedule a tour of our senior living communities in Lincoln, CA and Rancho Cordova, CA.