I posted that isolation is a significant problem. I did not expect the volume of replies that I got to this post. I asked in this post that someone help me find a solution to this problem. I have not received any suggestions. I am therefore attempting to find a solution to this problem on my own.
My previous opinion on this matter was that these people were computer illiterate and did not know about #COPD360social, or #Right2Breathe, or #OxyTalk. The fact that these people have responded to my posts shoots that theory in the foot.
My attempt to meet a need may fall flat on its face, but I feel compelled to do something. I am going to try reaching out to them and asking what would make them feel less isolated. Would it help to have a weekly chat or to get a phone call from someone who is concerned about them? If this is just a family issue, then it seems that there is very little I can do, but I will take their suggestions.
Please help me find a solution for our fellow COPDers and lung health patients.
Isolation is a big thing. I bet that alot of people don’t even realize it. Isolation causes depression, loss of self esteem, and loss of spirit. I believe it has gotten worse since Covid entered our lives.
My first thought was to create a buddy system. So many people these days do not talk on the telephone. How can isolated people connect? Hearing a person’s voice is a great way to connect. Isolation is loneliness. Alone on your birthday. Alone on Thanksgiving. Very Alone on Christmas. But hearing that phone ring…having the person on the other end singing “We wish you a Merry Christmas ” could really do a world of good! If an isolated person had a buddy, that person could call their buddy when they really need a friend. Maybe buddies could exchange Christmas cards! Birthday cards too! And your buddy can call you on your birthday and sing Happy Birthday!
Isolated elderly people sometimes have families that don’t care. That is very sad. Somehow there must be a way to connect with these people. After all, they are people just like the rest. Why are they isolated? There could be many reasons. Fear of crowds, of Covid, of cruelty, of not doing well out on their own.
I hope we can help these people. We would accomplish something great! We would feel it in our hearts!
Debbie, I thank you for your response. I hope that we can put some of your ideas into action and help some of those who feel so isolated.
Thank you, my dear friend. I hope we will be able to help people sometime in the near future!