Virtual communities and support networks help seniors access essentials for daily life as well as connect with others their age. Virtual retirement communities charge an annual fee ($500–$600 is typical) and operate with a combination of volunteers and paid staff. Members govern the community and determine the services that offered.
Typical village services include:
- Transportation for shopping and medical appointments
- Social get-togethers and outings
- Exercise classes
- Companion to accompany on appointments
- Arrangements for home maintenance repairs with vetted service providers
- Support for pet care—walks, vet and grooming appointments
Find virtual retirement communities at the Village to Village Network (www.vtvnetwork.org) or check online or with social service agencies in your area.
A network of family and friends can organize their own online support network for an elder. For example, Lotsa of Helping Hands (lotsahelpinghands.com) offers a phone app for organizing and providing support such as meals, rides to doctor appointments, or just stopping by for a visit. Requests for support can be posted and answered on the Help Calendar which also sends reminders.
