Online cultural events can benefit lonely older people, study shows

"We remember it all too well from the first lockdown. The obligatory weekly Zoom quizzes and the stream of cultural events held online.

While most of us can head down to the local pub again and delight in the return of good old Sunday quizzes, some people are still stuck at home. And research suggests online cultural activities such as museum tours can significantly improve the mental and physical health of elderly people who are homebound.

Social isolation and loneliness, which are often more acute in older people, are as bad for health as long-term illness and can lead to premature death. Successive lockdowns during the pandemic only made things worse.

Researchers suggest that just one virtual trip to the museum a week could foster social inclusion and improve the physical and mental wellbeing of seniors.

Not everyone has access to online resources and activities, however. “There are huge barriers for older people living in the community – lack of internet, knowledge and support, financial issues and so on,” Rafnsson said. “Studies show that those who have family around them, and a supportive social network, are more likely to take up and use online technology.”"

*Being an older person during these times that doesn't know or doesn't have access to the Internet can be really difficult when trying to combat isolation. Even though the pandemic has improved, older people are still the highest at risk and many still are encouraged to limit social acitivities. I think programs like this one are incredible at helping combat isolation and the effects that come with it! What other ways do you think we could help older people combat isolation, with or without the use of the Internet?*

#Isolation #Pandemic #Online

The full article can be found at The Guardian.