In early 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic unravelled with its impacts felt across the country in a variety of ways from health and social to ecomonic.
On 29 March that year, the Australian Government asked citizens aged over 70 from across the country to self-isolate — no matter their symptoms or situations — for their 'own protection'.
COTA SA responded with Postcards from Behind the COVID Curtain and we're delighted to present this video containing stories from five of the people who generously shared their experiences from behind the COVID curtain.
To watch the video, click on the play button in the image to the right. Running time 15 minutes.
About the project
On 29 March 2020, the Australian Government asked those over the age of 70 to self-isolate for their own protection.
Funded by the South Australian Government, Postcards from Behind the COVID Curtain was our response. Postcards was an opportunity both for older South Australians to record their experiences of life during the COVID-19 pandemic through writing or drawing, and to connect with friends or family.
Participants registered and were sent two postcards:
Postcard 1
Postcard 1 was a reply paid postcard for older people to share their COVID-19 experiences — what they disliked, what they loved, challenges and silver linings. How they filled their days — by catching up on all those jobs which have been put off, or nothing at all. Postcards were returned filled with stories, sketches, poems, letters and more.
Postcard 2
Postcard 2 was for sending to anyone the participant chose. It could be for rekindling contact with someone who's fallen out of touch, a mate who may need cheering up, a new friend, or popping in a neighbour's letterbox.