Navigating Lockdown in an Assisted Living Facility: Our Boredom and Creativity
We've been under lockdown here in the assisted living facility where I live in California for the past two weeks. At first, adjusting wasn't easy, but much of us don't venture out anyway, so our routine has remained mostly the same. We have activities such as movies, exercise, and coloring, which have helped us cope. It's bearable, but on my fourth day, I started to feel a wave of boredom wash over me. My routine became repetitive: wake up, eat, study, sleep, and wait for the next day to start again. This monotony started to feel suffocating.
Boredom and Routine
On my fourth day of lockdown, I found that my boredom was too overwhelming to ignore. I decided to break it by messaging all my WhatsApp contacts. To make things more interesting, I sent each of them a message and then deleted it. Now, my friends were sending me the messages I had deleted, adding a fun twist to the game. However, as time passed, I found myself not replying to any of the messages. The routine became yet another task to complete in my day.
One of my male friends even tried to call me, but I didn't receive the call. This was a turning point; I realized how much I had let the boredom take over.
Breaking the Routine and Recreating Connection
To combat the boredom and rekindle a sense of community, I decided to reach out to my fellow residents in a different way. I organized a virtual storytelling session where each resident took turns sharing their stories, memories, and life experiences. This not only entertained us but also strengthened our bonds.
Additionally, we initiated a "daily challenge" where each day we would set a new challenge for ourselves, such as learning a new hobby, trying a new recipe, or even doing some simple home repairs. This added variety to our days and provided us with a sense of accomplishment.
Adapting to Lockdown
While boredom can set in during lockdown, adapting to the situation is key. Here are some tips to help you or your loved ones stay engaged:
Set a Routine: Create a daily schedule that includes activities you enjoy and find fulfilling. Stay Connected: Regularly check in with friends and family through calls, video chats, or video messaging. Participate in Virtual Activities: Join online classes, watch movies, and participate in virtual book clubs or workout sessions. Challenge Your Mind: Take up new hobbies or learn something new, whether it's a language, a craft, or a skill. Stay Physically Active: Engage in exercises that can be done indoors, such as yoga, stretching, or even follow online fitness classes.Lockdowns can be challenging, but with creativity and a positive mindset, we can find ways to navigate them and even find new sources of enjoyment.
Join the conversation:
Share your own experiences and tips for coping with lockdown in the comments below. Explore more articles on similar topics to gain additional insights and support. Stay connected and spread positivity during these times.Sadly, I apologize for any grammatical errors in this message. Thank you for reading and stay safe.