You can help your family members in assisted living keep busy during the coronavirus by shipping them care packages and helping them pursue their interests and relationships in modified ways. 

The range of items that you can send and the range of activities that seniors can take up is broad. Consider making a phone call to your loved one right away to find out how they are doing. Do your best to help them understand how to socialize using technology. After you’ve communicated, you may have a better idea of items to send them. Experts say that sending packages during coronavirus is safe, especially if the recipient washes their hands after handling the package. 

You may consider sending any of the following items for your family member’s entertainment:

  • Puzzles, books, DVDs (films and TV shows), and magazines
  • Safe crafts/hobby items that match the senior’s abilities and interests
  • A small flower growing kit that’s easy to handle and can be used indoors 
  • A new electronic device such as a tablet or smartphone that you have precharged and loaded with apps, media content, and family contact information 
  • Indoor exercise aides such as a DVD for doing chair yoga

If you have any doubts about the safety of an item or the ability of your loved one to understand or use it, you may want to clarify what’s advisable with your loved one’s caretakers or their community’s management team.

COVID-19 Update: With social distancing and stay-at-home orders, many seniors are struggling with loneliness and isolation. We’ve developed a list of products that caregivers or seniors can purchase to help older adults stay happy, healthy and connected, whether they are aging in place at home or in an assisted living community.

Additional Coronavirus FAQs