Getting older can be an isolating experience. Children grow up, move away and start families of their own. Spouses and friends may get sick or pass away. After a while, many elders start to see their social circles dwindle.
What’s more, even elders who have loved ones nearby often don’t want to rely on their families all the time. This is especially true for people who would prefer to age in place and maintain a sense of independence.
Enter the “virtual village.” Valuable, but underutilized, these communities allow elders to access shared resources and connect with each other for socialization and support.
How do virtual villages work?
In virtual villages, members pay annual dues. Some provide discounts or waivers for seniors with limited incomes. In exchange, members get access to a variety of services, resources and events.
While every virtual village is different, these are a few common amenities:
- Transportation
- Help with cooking and shopping
- Yard work and household chores
- Pre-screened and trusted referrals to service providers and professionals
- Organized social events for community members
Virtual villages don’t just help elders stay on top of their responsibilities. They also provide valuable connections to the community and a place to make new friends. Members love the opportunity to participate in movie nights, group dinners, educational programs and more.
How do I get started?
For more information on how virtual villages work, check out the website of the Virtual Village Network. There, you will find a helpful tool that provides the name and contact information for virtual villages in your area. There are a number in Seattle and throughout the country.