During the emergency phase of the COVID-19 pandemic, millions of people began using video conferencing platforms for work, school, volunteering, dating, and keeping in touch with friends and loved ones. However, seniors who felt left behind by the sudden shift in technology use and social habits may still be missing out on some of its greatest benefits. Virtual socializing can be particularly great for seniors even outside of a pandemic, for multiple reasons.

Here’s what you need to know about virtual meetups and how they can help you live a healthier and happier life—no matter what’s going on in the world.

Why Seniors Should Try Virtual Meetups

Virtual socializing can be enormously beneficial for seniors because it helps to:

• Prevent senior isolation, which older people can be at greater risk for than other age groups
• Keep seniors with weakened or compromised immune systems safe and healthy
• Allow seniors with mobility challenges to socialize from the comfort and safety of home rather than having to navigate transportation and other logistics
• Promote brain health in seniors by helping them learn to use new technology
• Boost general mental health and overall wellbeing
• Prevent dementia, heart disease, stroke, and death

Here’s how seniors can take advantage of new video call technology and virtual socializing opportunities.

Video Call Resources for Seniors

If you’re new to video calls, don’t worry—there are plenty of resources to help you learn the ropes (and doing so can be much less complicated than you might imagine). Here are some ideas for getting comfortable with video conferencing platforms:

• Ask a tech-savvy friend or family member to help you set up a platform on your computer or phone and do practice calls with you
• Explore video call tools designed specifically with seniors in mind, such as CallGenie, Komp from No Isolation, and more
• When you’ve decided on a platform, visit the brand’s website for how-tos and tutorials

Virtual Social Event Ideas

Once you’ve got the hang of video call technology, the options for virtual social events are almost limitless. Consider participating in the following with friends, family, new acquaintances, and friends you haven’t met yet:

• Book club meetings
• Movie nights
• Board games or online games
• Cooking sessions or shared meals
• Online classes
• Trivia nights

Make New Friends With Spectrum Community Services

At Spectrum, we work hard to prevent isolation in our senior clients, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Seniors can enjoy in-person social opportunities through our Meet & Eat program or virtually through our Grab & Connect program. Sign up today to get in on the fun!

Spectrum Community Services is committed to improving the quality of life for low-income families, seniors, and individuals in Alameda County. Through financial assistance, outreach programs, and services, our goal is to support community members in building healthy, safe, and independent lives. Contact us to learn more about our services, or consider making a donation to support our work. We can't wait to work with you!