Yesterday was very disappointing day for media in Mumbai, as they all were fully prepared for reporting the devastation caused Cyclone Nisarga. But Mumbaikars were lucky that Nisarga spared them, the devastation occurred in neighbouring Raigarh district and area near Alibagh town was affected with major fury of the cyclone. Mumbai suffered blackouts in some places, and 100+ tree fell down due to heavy winds. The damage was very less in city as compared to what could have happen if Nisarga land fall happen in Mumbai area.
Coming to Covid 19, India has already crossed the figure of 200,000+ cases, and state of Maharashtra leading with 75,000+ cases. The death toll in Maharashtra is now 2500+ with Mumbai accounting for 144+ deaths. Situation in Mumbai is turning from bad to worse, the number of cases in city now has a figure of 43,400+ cases with 1400+ deaths. I dread to think about the final tally of cases in Maharashtra and specially in Mumbai.
Presently the need of social distancing has become a means for survival, and it has put entire human race into a quandary. We are living as a social animal and contact with others is much needed for our survival. Who can deny the warmth of a hug, and yet the Covid 19 safety guidelines issued by World Health Organisation (WHO), adopted by all the countries, clearly mentions that we need to maintain social distancing. Even simple handshake, forget hug, has become taboo, to ensure that the disease does not spread.
The problem of social distancing-Especially for senior citizens, the social distancing has literally changed their life style, for many of them socialising was the only bright part of their life. The socialising was a great refuge from the rigmaroles of the fast paced life led by their families. The problem is even bigger for the seniors when their children are staying in some other place. Since the morality rates are high among seniors in the case of Covid 19, all the govts requested senior citizens not to step out and stay safe.
While initially, there were panic and teething issues, almost all state govts allowed home delivery of essential items, medicines. And with the lockdown 5, many states have eased the restrictions, however where seniors are concerned, they have to stay indoors as much as possible.
The Solution– Maintaining social distancing only means that we are not allowed to go out and meet people, nor we can invite people to our houses and for Seniors this is going to remain much longer even after all the restrictions are eased out. That does not mean that seniors can not talk with people around . There are neighbours, and other people in the community and housing complexes with whom you can interact, from a safe distance. With family and relatives you can always telephone, or even make a video call (presently many apps are available for video calls), some even allow group video calls.
You could try to catch on movies or shows on TV, and if you are a bit tech savvy, joining virtual groups is also a good idea to keep yourself busy. If you do not find any thing interesting on TV, you can download Net Flix, Amazon Prime and many such apps, and can enjoy movies, web series from the global market.
Understanding Emotional Lows– In this kind of situation and atmosphere, there is a good chance people may go into depression or feel low. Hence it is important to be in touch with people and reach out help if you feel there is any issue, It is very important to keep your mind active, by following regular schedules, including exercising.
One must also ensure that various guidelines issued by authorities are followed. Please see that whatever medicines you are taking they are available wit you, always arrange for the fresh medicines much before your existing stock gets over. You must have all the telephone numbers which are required in emergencies, preferably they should be in your cell phone. In case a senior is living alone and finding it tough, you could move with your friends/relations if that is possible to avoid emotional low.
As per my personal experience of this lock down, my routine has also changed, and I have also found out about how to pass my time. One thing is sure that, this situation is going to last for long time, because being a senior citizen, everyone in my family will advise to stay home and not to move out etc etc. Friends, many of you also would be sailing in same boat like me, so in the end I would like to say that this phase will also pass.
Waiting for your comments/views/feed backs.
Anil Malik
Mumbai, India
4th June 2020