A business dedicated to helping support seniors through social visits is getting back to business after shutting down due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

A Friend Indeed shut down all non-essential visits due to concerns and directives from the province over the spread of the novel coronavirus.

The organization sets up visitations with seniors and staff members. Pre-COVID they also offered other services to seniors like helping them get to appointments or go grocery shopping.

Seniors communities are at an elevated risk of developing complications from COVID-19 and visitors are still restricted from care homes and assisted living facilities.

Robyn Pearson, the owner of A Friend Indeed, says a lack of social interaction with friends and loved ones can be detrimental for seniors.

“It is so important for humans to have connection, social connection with others. If a human doesn’t have that connection, there is an increased risk of decline,” she explained based on her experience working with seniors.

Pearson said many of their regular clients still live on their own and the isolation has been weighing on them. Family members have said their loved one's mental health has taken a noticeable turn due to the isolation and distancing measures. It’s why she believes it’s so important to get back to business.

“We have taken a staggered approach. Over the past couple of weeks, we started with just a few clients and we have received wonderful positive response, not just from the seniors, but from their families.”

They have changed the way they do things. Visits will now be done through a friendly phone call, a video chat check-in or an in-person visit done outside and with social distancing measures in place.

Pearson believes it’s vital to both the physical and mental well being of seniors in Airdrie and the surrounding community, that have the ability to socialize and connect with friends, family and loved ones. She adds their services can make a big impact for those who don’t have family close by to help look after their needs.

 

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