NEW YORK: The virtual village movement is a low-cost way for seniors to foster social connections and age in place while avoiding costly assisted-living facilities.
Members pay a yearly fee to gain access to resources and social connections that help them age in place.
These villages are low-cost ways to age in place and delay going to costly assisted-living facilities, experts say. Yearly membership dues average about $450, and most villages offer subsidies for people who cannot afford membership costs. Armies of volunteers, who help run many villages, also help lower member costs by doing housework, picking up prescriptions or taking members shopping or to the airport.
At the core of these villages are concierge-like service referrals for members. Members can find household repair services, personal trainers and chefs. The villages also foster social connections through activities such as happy hours and group trips.
Virtual village members stay in touch through village websites and email, or by calling local village offices. Many villages also turn to social media sites like Facebook, Twitter and Youtube to stay in touch…