How to convince elderly relatives of the danger of coronavirus and protect them

Living in a pandemic is difficult, but teaching it to parents and grandparents is even more difficult.

Due to misinformation on the Internet, stress and a desire to not show it, most people of age do not take coronavirus seriously. Here's how to explain to loved ones the danger of the situation and help them cope with the consequences of the pandemic.

1. Use the correct wording

Avoid the words "elderly", "vulnerable", "weak", "painful". Many do not consider themselves to be in such categories and believe that the virus does not threaten them. Instead, it's better to focus on specific examples. According toReport of the WHO-China Joint Mission on Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) WHO, people over 60 are at greater risk, and those over 80 die more often.

It is also worth mentioning cases of infection of famous people. For example, Tom Hanks, who, despite his good shape, is already 63. Recently, the actor and his wife passed tests for coronavirus. The results are positive.

2. Show that you can listen

When trying to convince grandparents, make it clear that you are hearing them, and do not just express your point of view. If they say, "I feel good, don't worry," respond in the spirit, "You are fine now, so there seems to be no cause for alarm."

It is very important. When a person sees that he is being listened to, he becomes more open and he himself listens to the interlocutor.

3. Use facts and comparisons

COVID-19 is a new disease. Therefore, not only the older generation, but also the younger people find it difficult to understand what is happening. Based on the available data and experience, the following comparison can be made:

The new virus spreads like a common cold, but as deadly as a heart attack.

4. Explain that they need to help others.

Usually people do not attach importance to danger when it comes to themselves. It is important to convey to your family that they are helping others by following the rules.

Being quarantined and following recommendations doctors, parents, and grandparents reduce the risk of spreading the infection. This means, first of all, they help to preserve the health of their loved ones.

5. Don't dump everything on them at once.

After talking about the pandemic and the danger of the virus, relatives will feel overwhelmed. Don't try to solve all the problems at once. It is better to focus on the most important, and later return to the discussion.

Instead of forbidding your family to leave the house, offer to buy everything they need.

In addition, it is always easier to agree with one thing than to accept a whole list of conditions.

6. Show that you can keep in touch at a distance

It is important not to leave loved ones, who are already suffering from loneliness, alone with themselves. Customize them or your old smartphone, tablet or laptop. Help to master video communication programs and messengers.

7. Show your love

Communicate with loved ones regularly. Find out how things are going, support in difficult times and see if family members listen to your advice.

8. Do your best to protect

Here is a checklist that each of us must complete to help our aged relatives survive the coronavirus pandemic.

1. Ask not to leave the house unless absolutely necessary and follow the WHO recommendations.
2. Buy and bring food, medicine and supplies.
3. Communicate regularly, help solve problems, support.
4. Bring books, download movies and TV shows to distract from the news reports.
5. Warn about scammers who have activated in the wake of the coronavirus and offer tests and other services.

If you know what else you can do, write in the comments.