Due to the epidemic, The Salvation Army residences for senior citizens implemented anti-epidemic measures and have no choice but to suspend all visitations. Our residents and their family members miss each other greatly. Since they long to see each other and can only be relieved when they know the other side is doing well, our social workers set up video calls for our residents with their family, hoping to slightly ease their longing for their loved ones.

Pui-cheung has kept in close touch with our social workers. He has been living alone ever since his wife has moved into our residence many years ago. The 92 - year old is unable to visit his wife recently due to leg pain and the current anti-epidemic measures. Just like many other people, Pui-cheung does not have enough masks, so except for going out to buy groceries, he always stays home and the situation depresses him gradually. The old couple used to be living together, and they relied closely on each other. Pui-cheung took good care of his wife in ill health and took up all the housework including cooking and all other household chores. Even after his wife has moved into our residence, he often comes to see her, and he always warms her heart by preparing her favourite snacks, bringing her cakes, or sometimes even making her a meal or some nice soup.

Seeing each other through the screen

Right now, their lives have been disrupted, especially when they do not even have smartphones to stay connected. Knowing their situation and caring for their emotional needs, the social workers who bring Pui-cheung masks and anti-epidemic supplies help setting up video calls for the couple once a week. Thankfully, Pui-cheung has rather good eyesight despite his age and the first time they saw each other through the phone screens, they beamed with joy again! 'Modern technology is superb. We can see each other's face simply by clicking a few buttons!' Curious and excited, Pui-cheung chit-chatted with his wife and kept asking what food she wanted. At the other side of the screen, his wife's heart was melted. Even the nurse who takes care of her said smiling, 'Finally she's cheered up after so many days!'

For many grassroots elders, the epidemic outbreak is a tough time that brings emotional challenges. Apart from providing for the basic daily necessities, The Salvation Army is also concerned about the elders' emotional needs. We are all looking forward to the meeting and reunion of our residents and their families when the epidemic is over.