STITCH ONLINE AND IN-PERSON COMMUNITY FOR OLDER ADULTS
Founder - Andrew Dowling.
International.
Program Description
“Our grand vision is to help improve the lives of older adults in every country around the world and provide an answer to the social isolation and loneliness that everyone ultimately faces at some point in their lives, whether they’re seeking friendship, romance, or anything in between.”
“…members who became socially active in the community reported a 54% reduction in isolation and loneliness, a 5x increase in social activity, 40% increase in physical activity, and statistically significant improvements in both physical and mental health.”
-stich.net
Activities, meeet ups, events, interest groups, and discussions in the Stitch community are created, organized, managed, and moderated by members of the community.
Older adults can get involved by attending virtual or in-person:
Interest Groups and Hobbies
In-Person Activities
Field Trips
Movies
Exhibits
Dinners
Book Groups
Fitness
Education
Volunteering
Companionship
Group Travel & Companion Travel
Group Chats
Virtual Online Activities & Discussions
Membership options include:
Free - allows older adults access to most public events, groups with other members.
Paid - allows older adults access member only events, groups, chat, messages, rewards & more.
Older adults who live in remote or small communities, or those with limited availability can foster new relationships and benefit from increased social connections by connecting with a newly created local support group of peers or with people from all over the world.
Stitch is the recipient of the United Nations Decade of Healthy Aging WSIS Healthy Aging Innovation Prize. The prize is awarded to organizations making a positive impact on healthy aging, under one of the UN’s major Healthy Aging initiatives.
source:stich.net
Benefits of Online Activities for Older Adults:
Convenience and Accessibility - the convenience of simply not having to leave home may reduce anxiety about going out in public or dealing with crowds. Virtual activities allow accessibility for those with limited mobility or transportation challenges.
Social Connection - allows older adults to connect with others beyond their geographic area, fostering social networks and new friendships with people from different regions or backgrounds.
Cognitive Engagement - online activities, such as discussions, puzzles, games, educational classes and learning new technologies promote cognitive health.
Affordability - free online programs and events are an affordable option for seniors on a fixed income.
Benefits of In-Person Activities for Older Adults:
Physical Activity and Health - group exercise classes, walking groups, or gardening clubs, promote physical health and may help to improve balance, strength, and coordination, and reduce the risk of falls.
Social Interaction- some older adults may find face-to-face, real-world connections and interaction more emotionally fulfilling than online communication contributing to a greater sense of belonging and community and reducing feelings of isolation or depression.
New Experiences and Adventures - outings, field trips, community events, or volunteer opportunities allow older adults to experience the world beyond their home.
Aging Programs
Senior Activities
Senior Social
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