Especially for older adults, the coronavirus pandemic has been an especially challenging time. My heart goes out to have already contracted the illness, and also to those health care workers who risk their own safety to continue to care for them. But in every storm, there is at least a small ray of sunshine.
Using technology such as Zoom has allowed many of us not only to work from home, but also to be with others virtually. This is especially helpful as we prepare to celebrate the Passover and Easter holidays. For those of us who usually participate in Seders this week, there are a plethora of virtual events which we can attend for free (without the food of course). The Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan has put together a comprehensive resource list for finding ways to celebrate Passover.
Mark Meridy, Executive Director of DOROT (where I work) discusses the irony of having to stay away from others at a time when we usually come together. DOROT has quickly adapted much of its programming to be offered online and by phone. I’ve created Tech Guides which can now be downloaded by anyone wanting to learn about many popular apps.
As another side benefit of the current situation we find ourselves in by having to stay home, perhaps we will have more compassion for older adults who aren’t able to be travel and to be with family and friends in person – even in normal times.