Take in some light with Dana’s “Touch Points” 

Dana Rubin-Winkelman, an Adult Day Services social worker with Ovation Communities, is communicating with residents and families through her “Touch Points – A Spark of Light with Dana” newsletter. Here’s an excerpt from her Chanukah letter.  

Hello Friends, 

I hope you and your family are well. I am thinking of you and sending my positive thoughts and prayers. We are missing everyone, and hope to bridge the distance through this electronic connection.  

This pandemic has attacked us in many ways. Usually, during the holiday season we look forward to in-person festivities and celebrations. Of course, this year will surely be different. To minimize the risk of exposure for ourselves, our families and our community, it is important that we do our part by following the CDC’s guidelines. Therefore, this year, we may be staying home for the holidays.  

While hunkering down in our homes and isolating is particularly important for an older, more vulnerable/high risk population, the social separation can lead to increased loneliness and stress. To make matters worse, research also associates social isolation with an increased risk of developing dementia. Although each person’s response is dependent on many factors, this potential forecast is alarming.  

However, there are ways to mitigate the effects of social isolation in older adults. It is still possible to remain at home while improving social connections. For example, individuals can be isolated, but not feel lonely. Also, people can remain at home, but still find meaningful, new experiences. In fact, we have found that even in a virtual setting, technology-based interactions create wonderful connections! Virtual classes, clubs, and support groups may help decrease the negative emotional and cognitive effects due to the pandemic. This is encouraging, hopeful news! 

Thinking of you and sending all my positive energy and love, 

Dana 

To subscribe, write to Rubin-Winkelman at Drubin-Winkelman@Ovation.org. For virtual programming options, contact Rubin-Winkelman or see the Chronicle guides to virtual activities and support on pages 10 and 11.