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Nurturing Social Connections

Nuturing social connections

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Nurturing social connections becomes increasingly important, particularly for our vulnerable older community members who faced significant challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. This article offers insights into their feelings and concerns, along with practical tips to support them.

The COVID-19 pandemic has deeply affected individuals across all age groups, such as the vulnerable older people in our community and their social connections. To protect themselves and others, these individuals have followed the necessary practice of isolation. However, this prolonged isolation presented numerous challenges for them, particularly in terms of socialising and connecting with others. Consequently, fuelled by fear and concerns, many older individuals have chosen to limit their interactions even after restrictions have eased, preferring the safety, comfort and familiarity of their homes.

When we spend time with older people in roles such as family members, friends, caregivers or health professionals, they often express their feelings and concerns about socialising through verbal or nonverbal expressions. While some of these emotions and worries may be familiar to you, others may provide new insights into their experiences.

  • “Being alone gives me comfort and peace.”
  • “The hustle and bustle of noises and activities outside overwhelm and stress me out.”
  • “I am uncertain about how to engage with others anymore, as I spend most of the past few years in my own company.”
  • “Most folks around me these days rely on these fancy technologies, like smartphones, to stay connected. But I must admit, I’m not familiar with those and the thought of using them makes me a tad anxious.”
  • “I face financial challenges that prevent me from engaging in social activities. It leaves me feeling embarrassed.”
  • “Many of my previous social venues have unfortunately closed down because of the impact of COVID-19. Now, I have even fewer chances to connect with others.”
  • “I am cautious about my health and worry I get sick when I go outside. So, I only go to the shops to buy clothes or food when it is absolutely necessary.”
  • “I feel most at ease when wearing a mask outdoors. However, often I sense people staring at me when I wear a mask as if I’m peculiar.”
  • “Feelings of depression and loneliness weigh on me, but I hesitate to burden others with my emotional struggles.”

Some anxiety may be exhibited by non-verbal cues that suggest a struggle with social connections and interactions. These cues can include limited eye contact, closed-off body language, fidgeting behaviour, minimal gestures or facial expressions, and actively avoiding social get-togethers such as declining invitations.

Anyone in a position as a bridge builder between these individuals and the outside world holds a special role in supporting them. By acknowledging their unique journeys, we can provide support, tailored to their needs to nurture confidence, safety and reconnection with the outside world. So what does this support look like?

  • Offer encouragement. Encourage them to take small steps outside their comfort zone and praise their efforts in gradually overcoming their fears.
  • Create a comfortable environment. Ensure that social settings are comfortable and familiar to them to reduce anxiety.
  • Provide information. Share accurate and up-to-date information about COVID-19 safety measures, vaccinations and the low transmission risks in certain areas.
  • Attend social events together. Going together provides a sense of security and support for the initial steps to meeting others.
  • Engage in joint hobbies or projects. Find common hobbies or projects that can be done together.
  • Introduce technology for virtual connections. Teach them how to use platforms that allow video calls.
  • Share personal experiences. Share your experience of safely engaging with others to provide them with encouragement.
  • Practice active listening and offer emotional support. Give them undivided attention when they are sharing their thoughts and feelings, allowing them to be heard.
  • Plan activities they enjoy. Plan activities and outings based on their interests to make social interactions more enjoyable.
  • Empower them to regain control. When they express worry while outside, guide them to a more comfortable space, such as a quieter corner of the event where they can observe. observe.
  • Be patient and understanding. Understand that their fear is valid and may take time to overcome.

Together, we can foster an inclusive and supportive environment that encourages and inspires older individuals to actively engage socially again and rediscover the joy of meaningful social connections outside the comfort of their homes.

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Make contact to find out how the team at 24/7 Contact Solutions have the skills and empathy to connect with and aid the most vulnerable members of our population.
24/7 Contact Solutions, Australian based Contact Centre Services