The COVID-19 pandemic is drastically affecting the daily lives of people all over the world, but a majority of the impact in the US has, so far, been seen in larger metropolitan areas. These densely-populated cities provide a lot of challenges for people in times of pandemic: people are living a lot closer to one another; public transit is often the only means of transportation; the cost of living tends to be higher; it’s harder to maintain social distancing. Here are some tips that may be useful to get through this pandemic and help those around you while living in a large city:
Avoid public transit: This may be easier said than done for essential workers and those needing to get food or other essentials, but look into whatever alternative means of transportation are available. For example, walking or riding a bike if the weather and distance allow. It can also be a good source of exercise. If you don’t need to be somewhere, please refrain from using public transport to keep it safe for those who do need it.
Stay active at home: Working out is not only a great stress-buster (and these are stressful times!) but also a phenomenal immune system booster. We’ve compiled a list of the companies offering free access to their content during COVID19 and also many free YouTube workouts.
Avoid crowded spots: Most cities have their parks and other places that bring in the crowds, especially as nice spring weather arrives. For example, Chicago has the lakefront and the 606 trail (the city has since closed these areas due to people congregating there and not maintaining social distancing). If you want to be outside, most cities still have smaller parks or places you can walk through that aren’t as crowded. Walk around your favorite neighborhood or explore a new one.
Buy your groceries all at once: For some living in densely-populated cities, there are many shopping options conveniently located nearby. This and the lack of a car may make it difficult to buy large quantities of groceries. Invest in a pull cart and try to buy at least two weeks’ worth of groceries. This will limit how often you need to go to the store and expose yourself to the virus. If this isn’t feasible, look into going at off-peak hours like during the day or shortly before closing. Also, if possible, use a curbside pickup or delivery option, and make sure to tip well to those who deliver. Also, make sure to wipe down your groceries before putting them away at home.
Wear a mask: You still shouldn’t buy up masks online that are used by medical professionals; thankfully, we have an online guide on how to turn an old shirt or another piece of cloth into a mask. This will not necessarily protect you entirely from the virus, but many people being asymptomatic or presymptomatic, it will help prevent you from possibly spreading it to others and lower your risk of catching it by 60-80% (depending on the material you use).
Maintain social distancing: If you’re out walking on the sidewalk, be aware of those around you. If you notice that you might not have enough space between you and a passerby, move over to the side and create that distance. If you’re walking with someone else, don’t continue to walk side-by-side as someone is passing by.
Support local businesses: This isn’t just true of densely-populated areas, but they tend to have a larger amount of small, local businesses. If you can, support these businesses in their time of need because they may not be here when this is over. Occasionally get your takeout from the nearby small restaurant; shop at the small, independent grocery store; buy something from the local hardware store. Anything helps these businesses keep their doors open.
Donate to a food shelf: Whether its kids who are out of school and have lost their main source of meals or someone who has lost their job and are struggling to get by, people everywhere are having a hard time. For those who can still work, consider donating to a food bank or any other charity that helps people who have recently lost work.
Keep your home squeaky clean: While there are many factors outside of your control when outdoors, you can keep your home immaculate and kill any remnants of the virus that have made it indoors. We made a list of ways to deep clean the house while you’re WFH (working from home).
Travel with your imagination: solitude can wear on the human psyche, so use your imagination (and technology) to visit faraway places. Those relegated to home confinement while social distancing in big cities can use our list of 12 ways to “travel” without leaving your couch to mentally leave the 4 walls of the apartment for some reprieve of the routine.
