The internet continues to grow as an incredible space for both resources and connecting with others. While it is relatively young, it has proven useful for people of all ages.
It can be overwhelming if you don’t know where to start. Conversely, even if you have been on the internet for years, there are always new websites to learn about. In this guide, we are going to recommend websites that we think people should know about.
Websites Made for Older Adults
Some websites were made specifically for an older audience. Others are open to all ages, but the primary audience is made up of older adults. No matter the case, these websites can be highly beneficial.
AARP – aarp.org
One of the most well-known organizations for older adults, AARP created a website that is available for members and nonmembers. To start, their website hosts dozens of guides. Some cover a broad look at a topic. Others are tailored to provide information that is state-specific. The website also provides some news articles, with a focus on senior-related topics. If you have an AARP membership, there are also webpages to help you find and redeem membership benefits.
Senior Planet from AARP – seniorplanet.org
This branch of AARP serves as a learning community, covering a large range of topics. You can easily sign up for their online classes or read through their informative articles. They even run an online book club! Senior Planet also has classes about how to use technology, from computers to apps and AI, so you can keep up with the ever-changing field.
National Council on Aging – ncoa.org
The National Council on Aging (NCOA) is a nonprofit focused on improving the lives of older adults. Their website hosts a wealth of information and resources. They also host the website BenefitsCheckUp (benefitscheckup.org) to help seniors find benefit programs that match their needs.
SilverSneakers – silversneakers.com
SilverSneakers is a fitness program designed for older adults. Their website provides live online fitness classes, prerecorded videos, information about in-person events, and a highly supportive community. Membership is often included in Medicare Advantage plans, but you can also make a free online account to access their resources.
Senior Forums – seniorforums.com
If you’re looking for an active online message-base community, Senior Forums may be the place for you. This forum website is specifically tailored for older adults. There is a wide range of discussion topics, each with individual threads to focus on specific things. Senior Forums provides a classic forum experience for older adults.
Events, In-Person and Online
The internet can provide access to community, whether it’s in-person or online. Here are a few websites that are good starting places.
Schenectady County Public Library – scpl.org
Libraries have expanded their offerings to both physical and digital assets. What’s more, they also host in-person and online talks and events. Since Kingsway is a part of Schenectady, NY, we want to highlight Schenectady County Public Library’s (SCPL) website. On top of what we’ve previously mentioned, SCPL also has virtual author visits and webinars, with recordings of previous ones available to watch. Their digital library is also available through the Hoopla app and the OverDrive/Libby system. It’s like having access to a whole library from home!
Eventbrite – eventbrite.com
Whether you’re looking for a nearby event to attend or an online group, Eventbrite can help your search. With a range of price points and an even bigger range of available events, you’re likely to find something!
Hobby Websites
Hobbies are a great pastime, and the internet has at least one website devoted to each hobby. (Likely more!) We’ll only mention a few here, but don’t be afraid to find what’s out there.
YouTube – youtube.com
The biggest online video website around, YouTube has videos made by professionals and amateurs. Today, you can find videos on all sorts of topics. As such, it has become a great resource for hobbies. Use their search bar to look up your hobby of choice to see what’s available!
Ravelry – ravelry.com
For any knitters out there, Ravelry is an incredible website. It serves as a giant database for knitting patterns. You can find projects that fit your skillset, and read and share notes with other knitters.
Cornell Lab of Ornithology – ebird.org
For anyone interested in bird watching (also known as “birding”), Cornell University provides a great source of knowledge. You can get information about how to start birding, and track any species you’ve seen. They also have a phone app called Merlin Bird ID, to help you identify birds while on the go.
Scribophile – scribophile.com
If you want to start writing or are ready to finish your next novel, Scribophile is an online writing community that can help. They host daily Zoom writing groups to help your writing habits. And, when you’re ready to edit your draft, there are people in the community ready to read and provide feedback.
Games
Online and digital games have been a big staple of the internet since the beginning. If you’re looking for a starting point, or some basic games, here are some recommendations:
New York Times Games (nytimes.com/crosswords) for puzzle games, straight from the newspaper
Tetris (tetris.com/play-tetris) to play this classic game
AARP Games Center (aarp.org/games) and Cool Math Games (coolmathgames.com) both have a large range of games you can play in your browser
Events at Kingsway
Today, the internet provides a new avenue of connections and resources, right at your fingertips. But if you want in-person connections, Kingsway has you covered. Our campus provides a continuum of care for our residents, from independent living to skilled nursing and rehabilitation. There are daily get togethers and communal spaces to facilitate gathering throughout our whole campus. Additionally, Kingsway residents can be part of the many events and programs we host.
Interested in taking a tour of our campus, or learning more about our offerings? Reach out to us today.