Why mail matters to a senior

When you have the opportunity for quality conversations with seniors, you realize how the simpler way of life (before technology took over our world in the past 2 decades) was appreciated.  Though seniors recognize the wonderful advances for the world at large, they came to rely on the routine of :

a. the phone ringing and having a chat,

b.  real face to face conversation (not through a computer screen),

c.  a personal letter or card received in the mail.

Receiving mail

Though many of us have accepted email, video conferencing, texting, online chats, etc as a normal way of modern life, many seniors wonder how quickly and why everything changed in their world.  If we look at the act of receiving mail – think back to the past.

Your mother or father received a letter from overseas and there was a bit of excitement when it arrived.  It was something usually unanticipated, a surprise.  The letter was about 3-4 pages in length.  Someone took the time to put pen to paper because they wanted to reach out to your family to actually communicate in writing.  It was written on a good quality paper.  A photo or a few photos may be enclosed.  The letter was read after dinner with other family members, as a form of entertainment.  The letters would be kept and stored with care (just in case).  Similar letters were sent once or twice per year and at Christmas, a lovely card was accompanied with the letter.

Today, receiving a long distance letter is unusual.  Birthday or seasonal cards e.g. Christmas are replaced with digital offerings in many cases.  But not with Happiness at Home Healthcare.

Sending a senior a lovely card or letter?

Seniors appreciate our cards any time of year.  When we visit a senior’s home, we see the cards displayed proudly on a dining room or kitchen table, in the living room on the fireplace mantle, or another prominent place in someone’s home.  The card becomes a part of family or friend conversations.  It brings a simple joy of remembrance to a slower and simpler time.  A smile is present on a senior’s face.  It halts the isolation and loneliness of these long days.

It’s a good time for a card or letter, don’t you think?