We know that having regular, caring and stimulating social contact is vital to older adults’ (and everyone else’s!) physical and cognitive health. Sometimes, though, we have to figure out how to stay in touch when visits aren’t possible.

Right now, visiting is inadvisable for many. So, what can children and other caring people do? How creative can you be?

Here are some ideas to start the creativity ball rolling:

• Help your loved one use digital platforms, such as Facetime or Skype; then have “face to face” conversations.
• Send text messages full of loving emojis.
• Email digital greeting cards and photographs.
• Arrange for delivery of your loved one’s favorite prepared (and safe) meals.
• Place a bucket of pansies or tulips outside a window to color the view.
• And, of course, call often. Regular calls, even several short ones during the day, will help your loved one socialize from a distance.