The COVID-19 pandemic has affected all, but none more so than senior citizens. Due to the extreme limitations placed on their physical and social interactions, elders have found it especially challenging to adapt to the new normal.
To help seniors feel more socially engaged, BAPS Charities has been organizing bi-weekly video conference calls in which they can interact and engage with other members of the community. To date, BAPS Charities has virtually connected over 210 seniors living throughout Canada with old friends and new acquaintances.
“The weekly video calls have helped my in-laws stay socially connected during these challenging times.”, says Dr. Damini Mehta, whose 79-year-old father-in-law has been attending the calls over the past several weeks. “. Participating in these bi-weekly calls has helped my father-in-law, Narshibhai Mehta, maintain relationships with friends, engage in discussions, and sustain his mental and physical wellbeing, all while maintaining social distancing guidelines.”
The video calls, organized by the volunteers of BAPS Charities, engage the participants to interact virtually through activities such as exercise, yoga, and games as well as conducting social discussions. As with the many other volunteer-led efforts undertaken in recent months, BAPS Charities will continue to explore opportunities to assist the senior community.
