Providing Practical and Emotional Support to Isolated Seniors: Warm Gestures to Restore Connection

The richness of life lies in its memories, loving embraces and shared moments. But as time goes by, these precious moments can fade, giving way to real loneliness.

In this article, we share with you some simple ideas for making old age as sweet as it deserves to be.

*Out of sight, close to the heart, the suggestions marked with an asterisk concern you even if you are geographically distant.

• Music to connect souls*: create a playlist of your loved one's favorite songs and those you'd like them to discover. Don't forget the songs that mean something to you and your loved one. Music can take you on a journey, revive past moments, unite hearts and bring a sweet dose of joy.
  
  
• Memory garden: if your loved one enjoys gardening, create a small memory garden together. Plant flowers, herbs and vegetables while sharing stories. Label each plant with the corresponding memory.
  

  " This basil reminds me of my mother's famous lasagna... "

• Picture book: create personalized photo albums to immortalize your special moments together. This activity also breathes new life into memories that may have been piled up and neglected over time. Unleash your creativity by adding decorations, quotes and tangible mementos to bring your photos to life.
  
  
• Creative correspondence*: encourage the exchange of letters between your loved one and other family members, friends or volunteers. Receiving poems, magazine articles, recipes, artwork or even photographs can be an inspiring and stimulating experience for your loved one, allowing them to express their thoughts and emotions in a unique way.
  

  " I have some mail for you! ❤️ "

• Practical support*: offer them your help with everyday tasks such as shopping, cooking, cleaning or accompanying you to medical appointments. If you're geographically distant, think of tasks that can be done online, such as ordering groceries or making appointments. Knowing that they can count on you for the little things in life can bring them great relief and a sense of security.

Think of personalized activities to create unforgettable moments of connection and love. These moments are an opportunity not only to recall special memories, but also and above all to create new ones.

In an upcoming article, we'll be taking a look at some original and surprising approaches to maintaining contact and renewing our support for a loved one.