Before the discovery of COVID, researchers in the United States identified social isolation as the silent health risk that posed the most significant risk. During the epidemic, people of all ages were accustomed to engaging in social activities and academic pursuits online.
There are a variety of avenues open for seniors to pursue to keep in touch with their friends, relatives, and other community members. Additional educational options, such as interactive sessions and group discussions, are made available through online conferences. Video conferencing makes it possible for family members of elderly people to check in with them on a more regular basis. After a video call, you tend to feel more connected to the people you are talking to, which may be an invigorating experience. Participating in online discussion groups is a great way to expand your social and intellectual horizons.
The human connection
Many worry that their elderly loved ones spend too much time alone and might get lonely. Having that human connection and sense of community is beneficial during difficult times. Virtual socializing and learning became the norm for people of all ages during the pandemic. Research demonstrates a healthy lifestyle that promotes physical, cognitive, and social well-being by emphasizing the importance of lifelong learning, social interaction, and fortifying family ties.
Social isolation was recognized as the most silent health danger in America before COVID, affecting seniors from all socioeconomic backgrounds. Under normal circumstances, many people suffer silently from physical and mental health problems linked to loneliness and isolation, but the current events are hardly typical. While trying to keep them safe, social isolation may put thousands of people at risk.
However, there are numerous ways for seniors to maintain contact with their friends, families, and neighborhood. According to studies, seniors who retain their social networks and nurture relationships are physically and mentally healthier.
Participating in online social activities
It’s lovely to see loved ones when the circumstances allow, even though it might not always be possible. Consider participating in online social activities if you want to interact with an older adult. The notion that older individuals are inept tech users is out of date.
According to a recent Pew Research Institute survey, 82% of those aged 65 to 69 use the internet, and two-thirds claim to have broadband internet connections at home. Since the pandemic, an increasing number of seniors have been utilizing Zoom for in-person discussions over coffee, lunch dates, and happy hours.
However, even though many seniors are comfortable with technology, some might need extra assistance setting up video conferences or locating sources of online connection. A rewarding and enjoyable activity for bonding is teaching a senior how to use new technologies. Additionally, if the relative or friend lacks expertise, they can think about enrolling in a class jointly.
Attending online talks, presentations, or events
You can continue organizing nights out or going to talks or presentations. You can attend live events online! Without worrying about dressing up or driving someplace, order takeout from your favorite restaurant and relax at home for a great evening! An older adult who attends a significant lecture or lecture series can keep learning from influential thinkers without ever leaving the comfort of their home.
Online conferences offer additional educational opportunities, including seminars, interactive sessions, and group discussions that go well with various speaker presentations.
Opportunities like these give you a chance to gain new knowledge or skills, which is advantageous in and of itself. You can attend online events from any location by watching the presentations on your computer, smartphone, or tablet. Additionally, this eliminates the need for travel, lodging, food, etc. You’ll save time and money because you won’t have to worry about scheduling anything besides the summit’s actual time.
Video conference with family and friends
Setting up a group video chat has never been simpler, and there are free choices that work well for smaller groups and premium options that work well for bigger groups of friends and family members. An excellent approach to staying in touch is exchanging stories and seeing one another’s faces. You’ll understand how not alone you are as you chat with people and discuss your feelings more.
Because you can see faces and facial emotions during video calls, they are distinct from phone calls. This can make it easier for older adults to follow talks while making them feel more involved. Seniors can overcome this barrier by using video conferencing to interact with anyone, anywhere, at any time. The ability to see loved ones’ faces makes communication more dynamic and intimate. It’s fantastic, especially for parents of young kids who might not be able to have a complete discussion but can appreciate seeing you on screen. You can also utilize video conferencing to preserve family customs or strengthen bonds with loved ones.
Examples include reading a bedtime tale to your grandchildren, putting on a puppet show for a young child, or having your school-age relatives demonstrate their most recent academic achievement. Video conferencing enables family members of older individuals to check in more frequently, which is crucial if they live far away and can’t visit often. With video chat, you can truly “see” how a senior is doing and gain insight into their quality of life, which is impossible over the phone. Talking on the phone can be challenging if a senior is experiencing hearing loss.
Contrarily, video conferencing enables individuals to express themselves fully through verbal and nonverbal means. All parties can follow and engage in a conversation using hand gestures, body language, facial expressions, and other visual cues. The options for “closed captioning” or “live subtitles” in some video conversations can further aid understanding.
Video calls can be rejuvenating since you feel closer to the individuals you spoke with afterward. Everything seems better and brighter when you feel linked to and supported by the people you love. Everything seems better and brighter when you feel connected to and supported by those you love. Your health, including your immune system and heart, will benefit from this uplift in optimism.
Play games online with family and friends
Popular board games are now available online! Sometimes all it takes to bring people together is a game night. These pursuits are frequently referred to as “online family games.” Family competitions can be had online with virtual games. Through virtual meeting tools like FaceTime, Zoom, and Skype, family favorites like Monopoly, Scattergories, and Scrabble may be played online with others. Many websites also have card games, trivia, and other entertaining activities.
Online gaming can promote fun and family ties among distant relatives. These games can foster relationships through shared experiences, whether older folks are playing online multiplayer games with pals or utilizing family-friendly apps like “Heads Up” with the family in the living room.
Look at forums to gain knowledge and insight
Online forums are a fantastic way to broaden your social network and intellectual horizons. Seniors interact with young adults from all over the world through these online groups, each of which has its distinct personality. Online books or music discussion groups, emotional support for widows or people managing a partner with a chronic illness, and lighthearted and hilarious discussions are also ordinary. Everyone can find something here!
AARP’s Senior Planet
AARP’s Senior Planet Virtual Social Engagement Resources for seniors could be an excellent place to start. Many senior citizens have benefited from this reliable and well-run website. Have fun on the trip!
