I’m a huge proponent of older adults being able to build community. However, when it is cold, or when it is too hot, that becomes difficult. This is especially true in the winter because it may be unsafe for them to drive or go anywhere. So here are some ways that older adults can benefit from community while not being able to leave their homes.
Online Book Club
Online book clubs are a great option for people who love reading but may not be able to leave their home every day. You can look for them on Facebook, or on a website like Bookclubs.com, which has resources for finding book clubs in your area.
Communities for Indoor Hobbies
On social media there are often groups for indoor hobbyists, like knitters or crafters. Like with book clubs, this is a great way to build community and get inspiration within your hobby. And it’s just fun to show off your new painting in a hobby painting group. You might learn about different techniques and styles, too, so it is intellectually stimulating, which is important as well.
The online world in general can provide much-needed community to older adults. Just be careful, there are a lot of scams and propaganda that older adults tend to be more susceptible to because they may have not built the media literacy skills necessary.
This was a short one! Let me know your ideas down below!
Written by Brigid Stakelum
