Grandma misses you! The coronavirus pandemic has totally disrupted the daily lives of all Americans. Additionally, for many of the country's 70 million grandparents, contact with young grandchildren has been cut off. Older Americans have a higher risk of developing complications from COVID-19, and children may be asymptomatic carriers. So intimate relationships have been frozen in time, leaving grandparents longing for a connection they once took for granted. Grandparents are these enormously important attachment figures. Families worry the separation could weaken the bond between grandparent and grandchild. The bond may be lasting, but childhood is not. Children grow quickly, and an older grandparent may see the clock ticking. Many ask," When am I going to see my grandchildren again?" They miss the closeness.
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Solstice Green Directory - Fall 2020
by Margaret De Stefano
They are also worried about the health risks their grandchildren pose to them. Technology to the rescue! They can see their grandchildren over Zoom. It's not a perfect substitute, but it helps keep grandchildren engaged. Occasionally, some drive by their children's homes to visit from the driveway. Medical experts see such outdoor encounters as relatively safe. For grandparents who live far from their grandchildren, this time has meant canceling family gatherings. Many now contact their grandmother daily over Messenger Kids, a communications app. The calls can't replace a visit, but everyone can look forward to the calls and connection. Don't forget to call grandma!
