The COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically changed our lifestyles, and it has made seniors even more vulnerable to a problem that was already a crisis in the US: isolation, loneliness, and mental health struggles. Preventing those issues while maintaining a safe lifestyle during the pandemic has presented new challenges.
While there is no easy solution, there are things that can be done to help improve overall attitude and enhance mental well-being during these unique times. Some simple measures can help, for example, using internet technologies to connect with friends and families.
Other practical tips for maintaining mental health during thiscrisis include:
- Trying a telehealth service to talk to doctors and nurses about any health concerns.
- Using computers and smartphones, or any phone for that matter, to stay connected to family and friends
- Making lifestyle improvements to manage physical and mental health.
- Understanding of your finances and protecting yourself from scams.
To learn more, check out this helpful resource from Medicare Advantage for caregivers and seniors themselves:
https://www.medicareadvantage.com/resources/senior-guide-to-mental-health-during-covid-19
Some other helpful resources include:
- National Council on Aging
- Medicare
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
- Los Angeles County Department of Public Health
If you have questions and would like to speak to someone, call the Los Angeles County Information line 2-1-1, which is available 24 hours a day.