Caring for Isolated Elders in a Pandemic
In May of 2006, I walked in my college’s graduation service even though I had to stay behind for 6 weeks to take one last class – math. To add to my stress, that summer, my mom developed antibiotic-resistant pneumonia. She was in the hospital for 8 weeks. It was scary, especially since I was in another state. I am thankful that she recovered and was eventually able to come home.
What got us all through that time was the support of family and friends. People were calling me from our church in Atlanta, while I was in Nashville doing my math class, to tell me they were praying for her, and for me. I received multiple cards in the mail each week. It meant a lot.
Caring for Isolated Senior Adults
During this uncertain time, many of our most vulnerable in our society, and in our church are at high risk of complications from illness, but more importantly, of isolation and loneliness.
Isolation is a major health concern among the elderly population. This is a tough time for all of us. If you are wondering how to reach out to someone you know who lives alone, who may be feeling scared, here are some suggestions I would like to offer, based on my own experience with an immunocompromised family member, and my professional experience in caring for older adults.
1. Make a Phone call
Pick up the phone and call some of our homebound. If you would like some suggestions for who to contact, send me an email and I’ll be happy to help you connect with someone (srobb-scott@fbcdeactur.com).
When you call, introduce yourself and your connection to the church. It is such a comfort to so many to know that their church is thinking of them. Have some chit chat, and then, use these suggested prompts to guide your conversation:
a. “It’s a scary time right now. How are you doing?” “ Do you have any concerns or fears about what you’ve heard on the news about this virus?”
b. “What are some scriptures that help you get through a hard time?” “What about a favorite hymn?”
c. Share your favorite scripture and hymn.
d. Ask if they have the groceries they need, or if there’s anything you could pick up at the store for them. Offer to bring it to their home, and either bring it inside or leave it at the front door. NOTE: If you do this, please wipe down your steering wheel before driving to their home, wipe down the bags, and sanitize your hands before you bring their groceries to them. If at all possible, avoid entering the home.
e. “Would it be a comfort to you if I remembered you in prayer?” “ Would you like me to say a prayer with you now?” “How can I pray for you?”
f. Have a prayer with them. Assure them that they are not alone and that you are thinking of them, and are there for them.
2. Write a Note
Nothing beats getting a real letter in the mail! I only check my mail occasionally because bills do not make me smile. But a personal note from someone who has taken the time to write to me definitely does.
a. Open your note by telling them about yourself and your connection to the church.
b. Say you hope they are doing well, and you are thinking of them in this scary time in our country; that you are praying for them.
c. Include your phone number if you like, and any offers of availability to help with groceries or just to be a friend to talk to.
Many older adults, particularly those who live alone or in facilities are used to having activities at the facility or the senior center to fill their days and help meet the social aspect of life that is so important to us all. Never underestimate the value of a phone call or a note to these precious people of God. We all need each other, and this demographic needs all that we can give, especially now.
Let’s remember to be present to one another however we can, to soothe each other’s fears, and to use our gifts to serve the people around us, particularly those who need it most. It’s an honor to serve alongside you all. Blessings.
Sara Robb-Scott
Pastor for Senior Adults and Pastoral Care
First Baptist Church Decatur