Liz Healy, Author at The Riverside Connection - Page 177 of 179

Infection Prevention Around the Holidays

The holidays are right around the corner. Many of us are contemplating celebrations and gatherings with loved ones. While the holidays may look at little different this year, by paying attention to safe practices we can enjoy this festive time and help keep everyone safe.

Set a Plan and Limit Travel

It is important to discuss plans with one another to help promote safe practices. This gives everyone the opportunity to discuss their concerns and a time to develop a plan that everyone can agree to. If public air/ground transportation would be required to have a gathering, consider having a virtual gathering instead.

Safe Practices to Keep in Mind While Gathering

  • Hand washing – either with soap and water or using hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol
  • Disinfect high touch areas – places such as door knobs, light switches and countertops that are often touched by more than one person should be disinfected often
  • Maintain social distancing – distancing of at least 6 feet
  • Have an outdoor gathering – there is more room to spread out, but if it is too cold to be outside, consider cracking a window or door to help circulate fresh air
  • Wear your masks – make sure the masks covers both your nose and mouth – especially when social distancing is difficult

Food Preparation and Distribution

Your best option is to limit shared foods. If food must be shared, plan to have one person be the designated food server. Other options include, having it be a bring your own food gathering or order individually packaged food from a local restaurant.

Additional Resources

“COVID-19: Holiday Celebrations and Small Gatherings”. CDC. Retrieved 18 November 2020.

“Celebrating Thanksgiving”. CDC. Retrieved 18 November 2020.

“COVID-19 (coronavirus) and holiday celebrations: Tips for gathering safely”. Mayo Clinic. Retrieved 18 November 2020.

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Well in Mind: Managing Holiday Stress

  • Acknowledge your feelings: Recognize any sadness, grief, loneliness, or anxiety that might be present.
  • Reach out: If you are lonely, seek out community. If you are stressed, talk to friends or family about your concerns. Try volunteering to foster inspiration and stay connected.
  • Be realistic: Things don’t have to be perfect, or like they were last year. Traditions change and grow with families. Get creative on how to adapt favorite traditions and brainstorm new ones.
  • Set aside differences: Accept friends and family as they are, even if they don’t live up to your expectations.
  • Stick to a budget: Decide how much you can spend on food and gifts before you start shopping. Don’t buy happiness!
  • Plan ahead: Set aside time for shopping, baking, and connecting with others. Make to-do lists in advance.
  • Learn to say no: Saying yes when you should say no leads to resentment and feeling overwhelmed. It’s okay if you don’t feel comfortable participating in every event you get invited to.
  • Don’t abandon healthy habits: Have healthy snacks before holiday meals, get plenty of sleep, maintain regular physical activity, engage in mindfulness and deep breathing, limit or avoid tobacco, alcohol, and drugs.
  • Take a breather: Make time for yourself, even if just 15 minutes alone with no distractions.
  • Seek professional help if you need it : Call Well In Mind at x6187 for more in-depth support.
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Ugly Mask Contest Winners Announced

Teddi Lewis of Pastoral Care won the individual contest & the residents of Miller won the group contest for the MarketPlace Gift Shop’s 2020 Ugly Mask Competition. Each received holiday prize baskets and Teddi’s win even came on her 5 year anniversary with Riverside! Happy Holidays!

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