March 4, 2025
In our series on Enhancing Mental Health and Combatting Isolation, we present the following strategy: Leveraging Technology for Virtual Connections. This strategy/ tool can be helpful to individuals of all ages, allowing them to feel more connected with others by offering an alternative to in-person social interactions.
As the digital world continues to transform, technology can provide one more way for older adults to stay in touch with their loved ones who may be at a distance from them. From video calls to online communities, virtual connections can support mental health by helping older adults to feel more connected and less alone as they age in place in their homes.
We will explore the benefits of virtual connections as well as offer tips and tricks to make the use of technology simple and easy for our older adult neighbors looking to connect. Now, let's talk about tech!
The Benefits of Virtual Connections
Combatting Isolation. With age comes the experiences of reduced mobility and less frequent opportunities for social connection. These experiences can give way to social isolation and loneliness. Tech, in its many forms including cell phones, tablets, computers and beyond, can help bridge the gap in connection, allowing neighbors to stay engaged with others even from a distance.
Boost Mental Health. Regular virtual interactions may lift your spirit and even improve your mood. They can help you feel more connected to those you know and even give way to new connections--like those made within online communities. Studies show that social connections, even virtual, can help mitigate anxiety and depression.
Cognitive and Social Engagement. If you use a computer or device with internet, you can access many virtual activities and online spaces to connect including video chats, activity groups, or even book clubs--which offer a source of mental and social stimulation. These interactions keep the mind active, help maintain cognitive function, and can promote learning.
Increased Access to Resources. The internet is your oyster. With a simple search, you can explore a topic that piques your interest or can connect with others on the topics you are interested in. When you use technology, you can search for resources related to healthcare, education, and even events that are held online. Convenient access to these resources can offer many perks.
Tips and Tricks to Make the Most of Technology
Start with Simple Tools. There will always be a learning curve with technology. People of all ages may come across these hurdles, but with tech's versatility comes an engagement opportunity for all. Some platforms may be easier to navigate than others, such as Zoom and WhatsApp. A family member, friend, neighbor or volunteer is likely ready to support your learning, too!
Schedule Time to Connect. Everyone's availibility is different. Scheduling time for virtual connection with a friend or loved one is always courteous. You can even plan a virtual connection schedule. This can support reduced loneliness amongst older adults by providing social moments to look forward to.
Join Online Communities. Do you enjoy reading books? What about bird watching? You can search for online communities that are having discussions about your interests. Online communities like blogs and forums can provide moments to connect with others that share common interests. You may even make an internet pal or two along the way!
Learn How to Use Tech. Again, technology can seem impossible. Where to begin when you have never used a certain device or platform? With a willingness to learn and explore a new tool for connection, your confidence using tech will grow in time. Then, you will have greater confidence with technology and expand your opportunities to connect virtually.
Set Up Easy-to-Use Devices. Tablets and computers have larger screens that make viewing easier. Devices typically have accessibility features, too. Ask for assistance setting up features like voice-to-text, adjust your brightness, increase your texts' font-size and more. Meals on Wheels Central Texas volunteers are willing to help!
Despite how daunting technology can seem at first, the range of tools and opportunities can give way to an easy and simple learning experience. Soon enough, you will become more tech savvy and more connected virtually. On a virtual connection journey, older adults may find more ways to stay engaged with others, reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness, and may even experience healh benefits.
Looking for more ways to connect? Meals on Wheels Central Texas Congregate Centers are committed to increasing social connection and engagement for older adults in our community. Older adults who are still active are welcome to visit MOWCTX social sites to socialize with peers. Select sites may be exploring the use of technology and incorporating different types of programming using tech for leisure. Learn more about our Congregate Lunch Centers today.
Want to support our neighbors and help create moments of connection for years to come? Consider making a gift, which supports a variety of programs that help to nourish and care for our Central Texas neighbors. Generous Central Texans help enrich the quality of life our neighbors can experience as they age in place in their homes. Want to visit with our neighbors and provide cherished social time? Join us in a lunchtime home-delivered meal visit to provide nourishment with a vital wellness check.