Tens of thousands of homebound older adults live in near or total isolation. Fortunately, online communities can help ensure social engagement. The editorial board of the New York Times reports on a New York City program that brings together homebound older adults.
All types of engagement can take place in these virtual communities. You might hear live music, discuss a book, take a history class, watch a skit or just talk and make new friends.
The evidence suggests that having someone to talk, walk, shop and/or dine with offers mental, physical, emotional, social and psychological support. While virtual communities are not the same as having a person or people to talk to–even casual buddies such as a postman or a grocer–online communities can be valuable. Take note: People who live in relative isolation have as high a risk of dying early as people who smoke.
How to find a virtual community? Reach out to your local senior center or place of worship to see whether they offer one. Your local hospital also might offer one.
If you don’t have a computer, some programs will bring a computer to your home, along with someone to set it up and show you how to use it.
Some programs offer daily classes. From there, you can make new friends and be in touch directly by phone or computer. Of course, you could also meet in person.
Whatever you do, so long as you find joy from doing it, it’s a benefit. It gives people purpose. It counteracts the social isolation of being homebound, which can lead to depression and heart disease.
Here’s more from Just Care:
- Who’s your health care buddy?
- Online social networks may extend your life
- Important resources for older adults
- Improve your health with a buddy
- Let postal workers help care for older Americans
