Everyone has felt the effects of COVID quarantine. Even introverts who had worked from home prior to the pandemic found the physical and social isolation of the last year emotionally difficult. It is impossible to understate how terrifying the global crisis has been for people whose immune system is not strong enough.
Even after the introduction of vaccines, many people with chronic illnesses like rheumatoid arthritis or cancer still need to take more precautions in order to protect themselves. Here are some things you can try to improve the quality of life for someone who suffers from immune suppression.
Do not pressure them into social situations
It is important to remember that peer pressure is not cool, especially during pandemics. Even if it seems like you could be helping them in some way, never force your friends to do something they don’t want. You may not have seen your immunocompromised pal in months, or even a year. But you shouldn’t feel pressured to force them to visit you personally. Your bullying could expose them to COVID-19 and put their lives at risk. You should avoid any uncomfortable situations or dangers by avoiding in-person socializing.
Maintain contact safely
It’s not necessary to meet in person in order to keep in touch. The COVID pandemic occurred in 2020. This was long after mobile technology had been widely adopted, allowing friends and families to communicate over distances. You can chat with your family and friends over the phone, or you can visit their social media page, or even video-conference. All of these methods of communication do not spread the COVID, so you can connect with your immune-compromised friend safely.
Offer to run important errands
Each interaction between an immunocompromised person and another could lead to the spread of COVID. The fewer people your friend sees, the safer they are. You might offer to run their errands, especially if you’re already in the friend’s bubble. This will help them stay quarantined while still gaining access to essentials.
Picking up prescriptions is one of the most important tasks they may need assistance with. Many areas still haven’t changed their regulations to allow curbside pick-up and home delivery of medical cannabis and prescription medications. In Arkansas, for example, your friend may have to go into public to buy cannabis products at a Conway dispensary if you live there. You could apply to become your friend’s caregiver if there is no other person to rely on. This would allow you to visit cannabis dispensaries and pick up prescriptions in your friend’s name.
It is easier to have groceries delivered to your door. However, it can be costly and take a long time. You can offer to help your friend by making grocery runs or picking up other items they may need. You can show your friend that you care by doing these chores.
Do not minimize their concerns or precautions
COVID-19 is a serious threat to young and healthy people, but the chances of getting seriously ill are low. This means that most feel more free to explore the world. You can’t dictate to others how they feel or act, even if you feel comfortable with your decisions during the pandemic. COVID-19 may not be as deadly or virulent as past diseases, but it’s still killed over two million people around the world. Those who are immunocompromised face a greater risk of developing serious illnesses that can cause permanent injury or even death. Respect your friend’s decision to quarantine, wear gloves and masks, and stay at home.
Immunocompromising conditions are not all the same. You should support your friend if they have a condition which could make their COVID worse.
