Plum Landing helps care for residents’ mental health during COVID-19

Individuals who are 65 years and older have been widely considered the most at risk of developing severe illness from COVID-19, and physical distancing has been a critical measure in the prevention and spread of infection within this age group.

This period of isolation can have a negative impact on the mental well-being of seniors, causing feelings of loneliness and depression.

Plum Landing, a retirement community in Aurora, is not just focused on the physical health of its residents, but on their mental health.

“I believe most seniors do best when they’re able to socialize with others, but on their own schedule. It’s one of the reasons we include most meals in our rent. They get up and ready for the day and can meet their friends in the Dining Room or Coffee Hour, maybe exercise or go for a walk, or discuss a good book with others,” said Don Mangers, executive director at Plum Landing.

“Having choices each day is important. Everyone needs some down time but being isolated or alone all the time is not good for most people. They’re no different than the rest of us. I think we all like having friends around us,” he added.

Plum Landing has reopened its dining room with safe social distancing. Activities have also resumed with safety precautions in place and encourages its residents to take personal protective measures when outside of their apartment. With safe social distancing, residents are able to enjoy activities like outdoor yoga and BINGO.

All apartments at Plum Landing have a view of the Fox River from their patio or balcony, providing a change of scenery for residents who have self-quarantined in months. Residents also receive twice daily well-being calls.

Connecting with others, making time to unwind and taking care of your emotional health and well-being is more important than ever in 2020.

Plum Landing : 495 North Lake Street, Aurora, IL 60506 : 630.896.5031 : www.plumlanding.org