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Lockdown advice for the Over 50s

Written by Andrew Middleton

I’m Not Done Yet was created to encourage people over 50 to live life to the full, but in these difficult times this can often seem impossible.

These are very different times. The COVID-19 pandemic has drastically changed the way we are living and how we spend our time. Things we took for granted are no longer available to us and what were simple pleasures are in some cases not possible or in others subject to restrictions and constraints. It is not surprising that we are uncertain about the future and how we feel about our day to day lives.

Unfortunately, we cannot magically click our fingers and change things. I suspect it will be many months before we can say things are “normal”. So, it becomes a question of doing the best we can with the situation.

Here are seven tips to help you boost your positivity and manage any difficult emotions that you feel.

1. Do not be too tough on yourself – these are very difficult times. Cut yourself some slack and be kind to yourself.

2. Build a routine – find things that work for you and do them regularly. Whether it be watching a particular programme or doing specific things at a set time, building a routine will help you deal with Lockdown and add a dose of normality to your life.

3. Don’t forget the basics – make sure you keep up all of the normality you can. Don’t let things drop, pay your bills, get dressed in the morning and do the things that you need to do to maintain your life.

4. Have fun and do the things you enjoy – now is the time when having fun is essential. Make time to enjoy yourself, watch some comedy, have a good laugh. Laughter is a great tonic in difficult times.

5. Stay in touch – make sure you make time to talk to family and friends. Find ways to connect with people even if online. Its good to talk, do not be afraid to share how you are feeling. Contacting a friend might just be one of the best things you can do for them too.

6. Get out when you can – there is nothing like the fresh air and a walk to give new perspectives. This is obviously subject to the restrictions that are in place and do take precautions to keep yourself safe from COVID-19 but getting out for a walk may just be the best thing you do today.

7. Don’t gorge yourself on news – it seems like you could watch news about the COVID -19 pandemic 24 hours a day if you wanted. Be selective and choose what which news you watch or read. Less is more.

We may be in for a few more sticky months so until things return to normal, the biggest thing is to make sure that you take care of yourself. Whether you are over 50 or younger, make sure you take some time to focus on yourself.

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