Many people in and around our community are feeling anxious and a little helpless with the recent Covid-19 outbreaks.
Here are some simple steps we can all take to help those around us who may need our support…
Try to be positive and calm:
Although this is an unprecedented time, we do not want to panic others. Listen to and follow government advice and try to look after your own mental health as well as helping others. Trying to remain positive will greatly benefit those around you who may also be stressed and anxious. If you have not been vaccinated, you must ensure that you visit your doctor and register for the two-step Covid-19 Vaccination.
Follow government guidelines on social distancing:
The guidance is changing regularly, make sure you keep up to date with what measures can be taken by you to best protect vulnerable and older people in our community. If you feel ill, try to avoid close contact with any visits to elderly or vulnerable people (even at a distance). Organise for someone else to go in your place if it is an essential visit.
Ensure you reach out and stay in contact with people:
Many older people may be alone. Organising regular contact such as texting, emailing, and phone calls ensures they feel connected to someone. Leave your number on a note through doors of your neighbours in case they needed you to help them with anything or they just wanted to speak to someone.
Contingency planning:
Ensure you have a plan in place if you were to show symptoms and were therefore unable to help someone who is in need. Arrange for other friends/family/neighbours to step in for you. If you personally care for someone, ensure there is a designated person who also knows what medication they need to take and any other necessary details about the care required.
Get involved in a local community group or initiative:
Neighbourhoods around Australia today have a variety of schemes to help the more vulnerable in the community. Steps such as donating to food banks, checking in on elderly neighbours via letters, and posting on community social media pages are all a great way you can support others.
