By Debbie Gardner
dgardner@thereminder.com
Sure, there’s plenty of online groups where you can make virtual friends. But what about using the internet to create live-in-person connections?
It can happen, if you know the right places to start.
Below are some suggestions:
this website is a clearinghouse for all types of interests- from hiking to reading, skills to networking, health and wellness, crafts and hobbies. There are activities and groups for men and women. Plug in your city or zip code and a host of local groups and activities will pop up, some in-person, some virtual.
There’s also an option to start your own Meetup group if nothing matches your interests. Free to join.
Senior Planet, from AARP, is a social media platform that helps individuals 50+ connect with others who share their interests – anything from cooking and knitting to owing a certain breed dog, to your home city or neighborhood. Groups are based both locally and strictly online. Some groups have in-person meetings. Free to join.
Stitch is an international community built to help individuals 50 years of age and older find friendships, companionship and sometimes, romance. Recognized by the United nations for its efforts to combat loneliness, Stitch offers members the opportunity to enrich their lives with “activities, interest groups, social connections, companionship and more.”
Groups and activities are member driven. Free to join.
This app, created by two women over 40, had its debut at the 2024 Consumer Electronics show in las Vegas, and by Jan. 30 of that year, had already facilitated 300,000 friendships!
According to its website, “Wyzr brings people together based on age range (don’t worry, your exact age stays private), location, shared interests, activities, and health and wellness goals.” Designed to facilitate in-person activities by age group for people age 30 to 60 and beyond. Free to download in the Apple App Store or google Play Store.
This site for individuals 50 years of age and older is exclusively about making friends and connecting with like-minded people, it is NOT about dating, according to the website.
Individuals create a profile and then explore the potential connections within the community. Amintro also has a page that lets caregivers connect for support. Free to use.
For women- aarpethel.com
The Ethel is a weekly newsletter “for women who weren’t born yesterday,” but beyond the stories and advice, it also offers an opportunity to join “The Ethel Group” on Facebook where individuals can join local Ethel groups for in-person events and connections.
Women-only adventure travel – Road Scholar
Road Scholar, the iconic travel company that specializes in travel and informational lectures for individuals over age 50 hosts a specialized group for women age 50-plus who are looking to travel in a group setting. Accommodations can be solo or with a roommate. Road Scholar acknowledges that many friendships have been fostered on the road to exciting adventures!
Hikers- 50+ Outdoor Club on Facebook
Hosted by Boston-based Road Scholar, the 50+Hiking Club offers” insider tips on the best hiking trails and outdoor activities in your area and beyond, behind-the scenes insights into the natural world, advice from experienced hikers and a supportive community of people who love the outdoors as much as you do!”