In a social climate where face-to-face gatherings are still difficult, especially for seniors, we have to get creative in order to connect with our loved ones. Thankfully, the internet has provided us with so many different ways to connect with family and friends. Here are some fun ways you can connect with your loved ones:
Related Blog: The Fun and Friendship at Sarasota's Senior Social Clubs
Connect Online Through Social Media
Facebook Groups
Whether it's a group of family, a group of friends, or just a group of people with similar interests to yours, a facebook group is almost like your own little private forum where you can all post whatever you like — pictures, videos, craft ideas, you name it!
You can even make it private so that only your little group will be able to see what is posted and commented on.
Facebook and Instagram Posts
Facebook and Instagram are the front-runners of the social media world right now, specifically in use over all generations. Your friends and family are likely active on at least one of the two platforms, if not both, which makes them a great way to connect with them and stay up to date on what is happening in their lives.
Facebook Messenger Rooms
Facebook recently rolled out Facebook Messenger rooms, reminiscent of the old school AOL chat rooms, but with video! You can host a group video chat with up to 50 people in a room (even if they don't have Facebook), and there is no time limit on the call, so you can host a dance party, book club, or even a virtual meal—all on Facebook.
Zoom, Skype, or Facetime
In a world where face to face connection seems to be hard to come by, video calls have seen a huge surge in popularity. A video call on Zoom, Skype, or Facetime is the next best thing when you can't actually come face to face with those you love. People have even been getting creative with the events they hold over video:
Virtual Game Nights
There are so many options for online games, and we aren't just talking video games. Things like Scrabble, Balderdash, poker, and other classics can be played online alongside a video chat. Your family (or friend) game nights don't have to fall by the wayside just because you can't meet in person anymore—you can still play all those fun games and connect over video.
Virtual Meals
What is better than a meal where everyone gets to eat whatever they want, and you only have to do your own dishes?
Many would argue that there is nothing better—and that's what you get when you participate in or host a virtual meal. Everyone makes their own food, grabs their own drinks, and then sits in front of a computer or phone and gets to have great conversations with loved ones over food. Even though it is not quite the same as a meal together in person, it gets pretty darn close.
Virtual Dance Parties
Another concern many people have in the current social climate is a lack of physical activity. This can lead to lowered dopamine and endorphin levels, and can cause some serious mental health issues, especially when paired with isolation.
The thing we love about virtual dance parties is that not only do they facilitate social connection, but they also get everyone moving in a fun and easy way.
At Sarasota Bay Club, we’re doing everything possible to create a safe, healthy community for our residents. Contact us to learn more or schedule your private tour today.
