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Your definition of luxury changes over time. As a child, luxury is everything that shines. Glitters and pastel colours are probably the best things that come to mind when you’re a little girl! And we would probably all agree that a little glitter can go a long way. Everything that shines may not be gold, but what’s wrong with loving shiny things?
In old age, luxury takes a new meaning. It’s about feeling connected with others and being able to enjoy your life as part of a busy community. When you grow old, you grow isolated and lonely. It’s, unfortunately, a natural process that has been encouraged evermore by the current pandemic situation. People are socially distancing and staying at home. Families who live together can rediscover their bonds. But when it comes to your elderly neighbor who lives alone, the pandemic is creating all sorts of health problems. It’s never too late to show your neighbors you think about them.
Consider joining an association that can help
If you’ve got some spare time on your hands, you can make a big difference. There are plenty of associations like the community based support for vulnerable members of the population. It’s worth asking your community if there is a way for you to help. Associations that require professionally trained carers, for instance, may not be ready to hire you as a helper. But you can donate to help. On the other hand, some local groups are looking for people to run errands for their elderly population. You don’t need any training to do your neighbor’s grocery shopping, for example. But it can be a huge relief for seniors!
Remind them that Valentine’s Day is about love
If you are looking forward to Valentine’s Day, you can probably imagine what it’s like for someone who lives alone. It is a celebration of love, so why not seize the opportunity to break through their loneliness? You could reach out with a box of chocolates to let them know that you’re thinking of them. For isolated seniors, it’s the little things like this that make a big difference. You can also give the elderly lady next door a present she can get excited about, such as a thoughtful bath relaxing kit. Offer to go together as soon as it’s safe to do so. It’s a little gesture that will mean a lot. Besides, spa days are a celebration of self-love. What better way to celebrate Valentine’s Day for them than to be reminded of it?
Make it a habit to keep in touch
You can reach out to share your phone number and ask for theirs. So you can safely plan a weekly call with them, to take some news and simply chat about everything. It doesn’t cost a lot of time, but it’s a kind gesture for someone who lives alone. You don’t have to change your routine dramatically to make them feel valued. If you are comfortable with technology, you could help them set up a Zoom call with their relatives. It’s the perfect opportunity for seniors to reach out to distant family members and invite them for a cyber coffee. You can even join the chat from your home too as the on-call tech expert!
Loneliness is a disease that affects most seniors. Making lonely neighbors feel valued and appreciated is not only easy, but it’s also hugely rewarding. You’re actively changing someone’s life for the better. Surely, that is a true luxury.
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