Tips for the elderly on how to spend time at home
Melahat Kızıl, Lecturer at Vocational School of Health Services, Izmir University of Economics (IUE), provided important tips for the elderly on how to spend quality and pleasant time at home. Stating that individuals of all ages should have a hobby, Kızıl said, “Daily plans should be made instead of staying at home and trying to pass time. People should turn this time into an opportunity and focus on wondering subjects such as internet or social media.”
Kızıl pointed that coronavirus was a threat to the elderly in particular and said that it was utmost importance for people over the age of 65 to abide by the mandatory curfew.
Indicating that individuals could entertain themselves at home through various activities, Kızıl said, “You may feel anxious, worried and bored during this time. It’s in your power to overcome this situation. Chatting with loved ones, communicating with them frequently may make you feel good. It is not advisable to lay down or spend time in front of TV all the time. Being up on your feet at least 6-7 times per hour will be beneficial for your health. Doing simple exercises, or even trying to walk at home might do good for your body. If you are not familiar with using the internet, this time may be a good opportunity to start learning about it. You can ask help from your grandchildren or your children. For example, you can learn how to video chat and chat with your friends and relatives.”
“MAKE ALBUMS, LISTEN TO OLD SONGS”
Kızıl stated the following: “Acting together with family members or relatives would eliminate the risk of feeling lonely. You can share your memories with your grandchildren. You can try playing games or cooking together. You can listen to the old songs together. You can read aloud newspapers, book, or magazines. You can try playing a musical instrument if you have the means. You can solve crossword puzzles or sudoku. You can cut out pictures from old magazines and make an album. Confining yourself into a room during this time will have negative impact on your body and soul. It would cause muscle weakness. Therefore, it is very important to make the best of the time spent at home.”