Fall is my favorite time of the year! The leaves are changing, temperatures are dropping and it feels like a fresh start to a new season. This would generally be the time when friends and family would come together to celebrate with social gatherings and community events such as fall festivals and market days. While some things are opening back up, many events are still canceled, and some are still feeling isolated. Loneliness can happen to anyone and chances are you know someone who could use a little lift to their spirits. Experts cite that having only a couple of close friends can make a significant difference in your quality of life.
Here are a few suggestions on ways you can connect with others and make a positive difference this fall season:
Go Beyond Social Media
No doubt social media can connect people around the country and keep you constantly in touch. But it’s even better when you take the next step beyond a quick post or text. Mark your calendar for a weekly phone call or Facetime with someone you haven’t seen in a while. Virtual platforms make it easy to stay in touch from miles away. If you have an elderly family member who lives in another state or country, and they aren’t familiar with technology, ask a family member in their household to set up a time to help them chat so they can see your face and you can see theirs. Your smile will brighten their day!
Pack a Picnic Lunch for Someone in a Nursing Facility
Do you have a family member in a nursing home? It’s been difficult to visit those in nursing facilities due to the pandemic and studies have shown there is a clear link between declining mental health and loneliness and isolation. Sending a care package with their favorite foods is a way to stay connected and give them a taste of home. Don’t forget the staff who are caring for your mom, dad, grandmother or favorite uncle.
Surprise Someone with a Reminder of Your Connection
My high school friend, Robyn Harrelson is a talented artist and owns Vanilla Sky Watercolor (check out her Facebook Page @VanillaWatercolor). I sent her a picture of some painted pumpkins I found online. She immediately took the time from her busy schedule to paint these beauties from the image I sent her. They will not only adorn my front door but will be a constant reminder of the generous act of kindness. What can you do to honor your relationship with someone else?
Take a Social Distancing Walk
Get outside and enjoy the fall weather if you are able. Meet a friend for a walk and spent some quality time together. Make sure to take your mask even though you are outdoors. When coming in contact with people on the trail, it gets tight and you still need to maintain a socially safe distance.
Help a Pet in Need
Contact your local shelter and ask how you can help. They can offer you some specific ways you can make a difference in a shelter pet’s life. If you know someone who is sick or homebound, ask if you can take their dog on a weekly walk for exercise, or help them retrieve food and pet supplies.
Create an emergency kit for a friend, and while you are at it, make one for your own fur baby that includes:
- A list of all medications, dosages and directions on how to administer
- Vaccination records
- List of allergies
- Two weeks supply of food and water
- Pet first aid kit
- Pet toy
- A collar, leash and current contact information
- Individual pet-sized carrier
You may also like Washing Your Hands is Always in Season. For more of Diane’s etiquette tips read her posts on Inc., subscribe to her articles on The Huffington Post, “like” The Protocol School of Texas on Facebook, and follow her on Pinterest, Instagram and Twitter.
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