RESPECT and SOCIAL INCLUSION in the Time of COVID-19

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 We are living in an unprecedented time in our lives. COVID-19 is affecting each one of us in a myriad of ways. The World Health Organization (WHO) that declared the pandemic also developed the eight domains of global Age-Friendly Communities. Here are some ideas in the context of their fifth domain of RESPECT and SOCIAL INCLUSION.

Age-friendly RESPECT acknowledges that each of us is responding to this health crisis in ways that cross the spectrum. Some people feel immobilized and need quiet time to sit and observe. Others are busy making soup and muffins, shopping for family and neighbours, and calling everyone they know. Age-friendly RESPECT includes finding ways to remind people without shaming that unless they provide an essential service, they must stay at home. How do we gently and firmly help them explore options to acquire necessities rather than going out to shop several times a week?  

Age-friendly SOCIAL INCLUSION means creatively looking for ways to not let ourselves and others become isolated. Daily or twice-daily phone calls to a vulnerable person can be a life-saver these days. Age-friendly SOCIAL INCLUSION means taping a large heart or sign on our front window to remind people that we are not alone. We are all working in community in this effort to “plank the curve.” SOCIAL INCLUSION means care homes doing their best to keep their residents connected with community.

Random thoughts to consider: Remember when you asked that small business to support your fundraiser? It’s time to support them. They are the heart of your town! Introverts, put down your books and call your extroverted friends. They need you! And finally from the Saskatchewan Union of Nurses: “[Staying home] is imperative to give registered nurses and doctors a fighting chance to bend the curve on COVID. We need the full cooperation of the public.    Catherine Barnsley catherine.barnsley@sasktel.net
This posting above has been adapted by Chantelle and Glenn for use on the Qu’Appelle House of Prayer Blog.  It can be found in its original form (by Catherine Barnsley) for Age-Friendly Communities on the Saskatchewan Seniors Mechanism Facebook page at:  click here.

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