After years of covid-19 quarantine and social distancing, many of us are excited to get back to living with others. But before you start cramming people into your tiny apartment like sardines in a can, remember that we’re not out of the woods yet. Thankfully, the South African Department of Health (https://www.health.gov.za/) has some guidelines to help keep us safe as we ease back into shared living.
“We know that people are looking forward to seeing their loved ones and socializing again, but we urge everyone to please continue to be vigilant and protect yourselves and others by adhering to COVID-19 protocols,” says Health Minister Dr. Joe Phaahla
The “New Normal” of Shared Living?
Sharing a living space during a pandemic may feel like a whole new ballgame, but with a few adjustments, it doesn’t have to be a nightmare. The key is clear communication and setting boundaries. Establishing a “COVID plan” with your roommates can help ensure that everyone is on the same page when it comes to things like mask-wearing, cleaning, and guest policies.
Creating a Cleaning Schedule
- One of the most important adjustments to make when sharing space during a pandemic is to step up your cleaning game. Designate specific days and times for cleaning high-touch surfaces, such as doorknobs, light switches, and bathroom fixtures. And don’t forget to clean those pesky little things like remote controls, phones, and keyboards.
Setting Boundaries
- When you’re living with other people, it’s important to have clear boundaries and respect each other’s personal space. This is especially important during a pandemic when we’re all trying to reduce our risk of exposure. To minimize the risk of cross-contamination, establish clear guidelines for things like meal times, use of common spaces, and even the “quarantine area” if someone in the household is exposed or showing symptoms.
Virtual Hangouts
- Just because we’re living in close quarters doesn’t mean we can’t keep our distance. With the proliferation of video conferencing platforms, there’s no excuse not to stay in touch with our friends and loved ones virtually. So, before you invite everyone over for a party, consider setting up a virtual hangout instead.
Preparing for Guests
- When it comes to having guests over, it’s important to remember that less is more. Limit the number of guests you invite over at one time, and make sure everyone is aware of the rules and protocols before they arrive.
Sharing a living space during a pandemic may seem daunting, but with a little bit of preparation and communication, it doesn’t have to be a nightmare. By establishing clear guidelines, respecting each other’s personal space, and being mindful of our health and safety, we can all enjoy the joy
