What to do? I’m retired and the sole caregiver to my 90 year old mother. She lives independently (with her dog) and is very independent for her age (fingers crossed as I say that). She lives in very nice, sunny and spacious place with a view. Since the first week of March she’s not left her condo bldg. Other than me taking food/supplies she’s seen no one but a kind neighbor who brings her home cooked food from time to time.
Here’s my question; Mom can’t stay sheltered till it’s safer for her to go out again. That’s very unhealthy as well. Since my spouse are I going out in public every 5-7 days. Is it safe to have my mother around us? … and this Sunday is Mother’s Day!
A nice drive would be great.
For lunch a picnic lunch if you can find an open place where you could sit and talk.
I think that would be the best Mother's Day anyone would want. Not a brunch in a crowded restaurant, that costs far more than anyone should pay. Just time. Time spent in some nice company and nice conversation.
Is it possible to sit outside and be a good distance away from her? You say there is a nice view. Perhaps, chat at a distance or even call on your phone and talk with her while a good distance away, if she has hearing issues. That's the only way I would consider it. Even sitting at the other end of a table is risky. To me, showing love is best by keeping the distance. I would view it differently if you have also been self isolating and have had no other contact with others since she has.
I have a pretty good idea that lots of family members will be coming to visit my mother next week, without social distancing. They won't check, they'll just show up with a determined look on their face, like they are sacrificing. They think that shows their love. My mother has been isolating since day one of restrictions. But, they will visit anyway. To me, love is best shown by looking out for their best interest and keeping them safe from covid-19.
Placing a guard at the door may not be too extreme.
"Mom can’t stay sheltered till it’s safer for her to go out again."??
Ask her if she wants to go outside while people are still dying of the virus. Or if she can tolerate being patient, deliberate, and wise.