By Barbara Fradkin – Hometown News

Reader Question: What will “normal” look like after COVID?

Answer: This is a great question, with really no right answers. What is normal now? We have all been riding an emotional roller-coaster and reengaging may not be easy for everyone. Some people will instantly be out and about, shopping, eating in restaurants and fully comfortable in public spaces. Others may think, “Are these people crazy?”

We have all changed this past year and reflected on what is really important. Many of us are more compassionate. We recognize that others have experienced fear and sometimes, loss. We understand that wearing a mask protects ourselves and others.

While some businesses closed for a time, One Senior Place stayed open — because we exist to serve seniors. We helped register many seniors for vaccinations and our private duty services have remained busy — because care is still needed.

For our programs, chairs are distanced six feet, surfaces are disinfected and we’ve gone through lots of soap and hand sanitizer. Since I wear a mask, I now speak with my eyes. I have become a ZOOM expert and hold many consultations by phone. Safely and conscientiously, we are once again having fun and learning at the same time.

My best advice is to re-enter society on our own terms. Take your time and show yourself the same compassion you have reserved for others. Thankfully, more people are getting vaccinated every day!

If you’re ready to dip a toe in the water, One Senior Place is planning a series of free ‘Welcome Back’ events the week of May 11-14th. These will be outside in the fresh air, where you can enjoy the camaraderie of others under our big tent, masked and socially distanced. Did I mention free food?

All kidding aside, “normal” may not look the same for a while. When coming out of isolation, start small and give yourself permission to retreat as needed. We will be here when you are ready.

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One Senior Place is a marketplace for resources and provider of information, advice, care and on-site services for seniors and their families. Questions for this column are answered by professionals in nursing, social work, care management and in-home care. Send questions to AskOSP@OneSeniorPlace.com, call 321-751- 6771 or visit One Senior Place, The Experts in Aging at OneSeniorPlace.com. Barbara Fradkin is a Social Worker, Certified Care Manager and the Director of One Senior Place, Viera.