In this time when many of us over 70 years of age should be self-isolating for the sake of our own health, it is important to fill our days with meaningful activities.
We know how it is great to receive a phone call from someone you have not heard from for six months, and how you have many topics to catch up on.
What about doing the same thing for someone else who you know lives alone in the Benalla community?
That person will really appreciate your call.
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Consider having a blitz on whatever garden space you are responsible for.
Perhaps you had some summer vegetables producing crops earlier.
Now only the tomatoes will have a few lingering fruit.
However, this is probably the time to consider pulling out the rest of the summer crops, adding fertilizer and mulch and after a couple of weeks planting things such as silver beet, bok choy or beetroot.
Perhaps you could think about planting seed first and then putting the plants out into a regular garden bed.
As the weather becomes colder it will be time to spend more days inside.
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If you have a computer you could bring up the Be Connected program on www.beconnected.esafety.gov.au, or by clicking and work your way through several of the modules.this linkÂ
If you really have to self isolate then perhaps you could investigate doing your grocery shop online, or using the online hobbies section to learn more about researching your family history.
What a story this might start.
If you are by yourself then what about trying to use Skype on your computer or tablet?
This often allows you to see the friend you are talking to.
Once again there is a module about it on Be Connected to help you set up and navigate through it.
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One thing to be careful about is people calling you at home who you do not know.
Be very careful what information you give them and never give them any details about your bank accounts.
If you want any work done around your home, only call trades people who are listed in either the phone book, the local paper or are suggested by a friend.
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