The pandemic continues to evoke negative feelings and emotions as we bring in the new year. The mandatory quarantines have increased behavioral problems especially among those that reside in nursing homes. This is because these residents are unable to physically see their loved ones which intensifies their feelings of anxiety, depression, and stress about the future and when they will be reunited with them again.
Fortunately, a recent study published in the journal, Psychiatry Research, found that video calls through FaceTime are a beneficial way for these residents to stay connected with their loved ones. The virtual contact proved to improve behavioral problems and lessen the feelings of separation from those that they love. Consistent video calls can help reduce behavioral problems and give a sense of connectedness with family once again.
If you have a resident who is experiencing behavioral problems, coordinate a video call with their family and their psychologist as it can help them feel more connected, reduce behavioral problems, and have a positive impact on their symptoms exacerbated by the pandemic.
Reference:
Padala, S. P., Jendro, A. M., & Orr, L. C. (2020). Facetime to reduce behavioral problems in a nursing home resident with Alzheimer's dementia during COVID-19. Psychiatry research, 288, 113028. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.psychres.2020.113028