Virtual Senior Center Now Free to Access

The New York State Office for the Aging (NYSOFA) and Selfhelp Community Services are now offering free access to Selfhelp’s Virtual Senior Center (VSC) for any individual age 60 and older in New York State.

The New York State Office for the Aging Director Greg Olsen said, “The Virtual Senior Center is a powerful platform that opens a world of possibilities and connections for older adults who are homebound or simply wish to access enriching social and educational experiences from home. We began our partnership with Selfhelp by offering its free VSC service through offices for the aging in several counties, and we are now thrilled to make the platform available to any older adult in New York State as part of NYSOFA’s longstanding commitment to address social isolation across programs and services.”

Selfhelp Community Services created VSC in 2020 to help homebound and socially isolated older adults stay connected to their community. The VSC offers robust programs designed for older adults, managed by social workers and a team who provide intentional engagement. Its inclusive and engaging environment offers a space where older adults can connect with one another from wherever they call home.

The VSC includes 400+ monthly live programs and other features — such as email, news, games, and self-directed “channels” — that can be navigated independently. Older adults can participate in classes, tour world-famous locations, interact with peers, engage in wellness activities, and, most importantly, expand their social network.

NYSOFA and Selfhelp began their partnership in 2021, offering access to the platform for homebound older adults in several counties through their Area Agency on Aging (AAA). The partnership was designed to supplement existing social engagement offerings for individuals identified by AAAs who may experience barriers accessing in-person social opportunities. The partnership is now expanding so that any New Yorker age 60 and older can access the VSC for free on their tablet or computer at https://www.vscm.selfhelp.net.

To register as a VSC participant, simply call Selfhelp’s VSC program at (718) 559-4370.

Among the VSC’s partners, local aging service organizations also host hybrid classes on the VSC platform, further allowing older adults to maintain a connection to those in their community.

Independent evaluation found that 84% of VSC participants reported a decrease in loneliness, and 76% reported feeling less depressed because of the VSC. Seventy-six percent made new friends and 67% joined programs for social connection and to learn something new.