Coping with the Covid-19 pandemic is proving a challenge for everybody.
First and foremost is the need to protect others, even if that means being apart from friends and loved ones.
Social distancing involves taking great care not to put people at risk – especially the elderly.
That’s why care homes have strict rules in place allowing only essential workers and medical staff to enter.
Last week the News highlighted how Fleet Valley Care Home in Gatehouse was keeping up spirits during the lockdown.
This week Barlochan House in Palnackie kindly agreed to tell their story about how residents and staff are still smiling in the face of adversity.
Manager Emmelence Higgins said: “We are going through some tough times at the moment but then again so is everyone.
“We have a great team helping to keep our residents safe and well and I couldn’t be more proud of each and every one of them.
“Our residents are still smiling and we do our best to provide our own entertainment, maybe not as good as the professionals but entertaining none the less.
“Our coffee afternoons seem to be times when the residents are reminiscing and its lovely to hear their stories of when they were younger and the fun they had”.
Ailsa Duncan says she is managing the isolation really well.
She said: “I am an only child and very much used to my own company. As long as I have my daily newspaper and my books, I am content.
“I can enjoy Facetime with my family when I want and I love receiving letters from family and friends. I am looking forward to seeing them once the isolation is over.”
Helen and Austin Hyslop are also keeping busy.
They spend their time speaking to family and friends on the phone and attending exercise classes as well as coffee afternoons.
Austin said: “This is a wonderful place to live and the staff are so helpful and kind.”
Helen added: “I feel we are being looked after exceptionally well.
“Both Austin and I can’t wait for the day the doors are opened for family and friends to visit.”
