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Yoga, YouTube, and the Joy of Getting Older Online

Your dad used to think “streaming” meant fishing. Now he’s got a favorite yoga channel on YouTube, listens to audiobooks on his tablet every evening, and keeps up with the latest in fishing gear in digital magazines.

More older adults are online than ever before. According to Pew Research Center, 75 % of adults over age 65 now use the internet. Whether it’s staying active, keeping the brain sharp, or just enjoying a good laugh, the internet offers fun and healthy ways to stay engaged, without ever leaving home.

Stay active without leaving the living room
Regular physical activity helps improve balance, reduce fall risk, boost mood, and even support brain health. Online workouts designed for older adults make it easier than ever to move more safely at home, on your own schedule. Try searching YouTube for senior-friendly options such as:

• SilverSneakers for gentle strength and balance routines
• Indoor scenic walk videos like “Walk through Paris” or “Walk at the beach”
• Chair yoga, tai chi, or other gentle exercises
• Dance videos

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that older adults get around 150 minutes of physical exercise a week. Subscribing to your loved one’s favorite YouTube channels can make it easy to find workout videos tailored to their fitness level.

Keep your brain busy and curious
Keeping your brain active is one of the best ways to protect memory and mental sharpness. The National Institute on Aging reports that learning new skills may help delay cognitive decline. With free websites like Coursera, older adults can explore college-level courses on topics such as history, health, literature, and much more. YouTube also has a learning section filled with mini-documentaries and educational content on just about every topic. Other fun ideas include trying the Duolingo app to learn a new language or taking virtual museum tours. Every day is a chance to learn something new. Here are a few brain-boosting platforms to try:

• Take online courses on any topic at Coursera.org.
• Follow creators on YouTube or subscribe to digital magazines for your favorite hobby, such as crochet, fishing, or painting.
• Use a language learning app such as Duolingo to learn a new language in just a few minutes a day.
• Visit museums virtually. Check out the National Gallery of Art or the Smithsonian.

Make new friends or stay social
Social isolation is more than just feeling lonely. It’s a serious health concern and, according to The U.S. Surgeon General, is an epidemic. Research shows that social isolation increases the risk of dementia by 50%, stroke by 32%, and heart disease by 29%. Thankfully, the internet makes it easy to stay connected. Try these ideas:

• Join a Facebook Group related to your favorite hobby, such as gardening, classic movies, or local events in town.
• Attend a virtual book club or discussion group through your library or AARP.
• Schedule a video call with family or friends using free video call software.
• Explore local senior centers that may offer online classes or events.

Have some fun online

Laughter and joy are part of a healthy life. Studies show that staying positive can help lower blood pressure, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being. The internet offers a variety of ways to unwind and enjoy your favorite pastimes. Here are a few more ways to have fun online:

• Streaming shows and movies on free or low-cost services such as Tubi, PBS Passport, or Pluto
• Playing games like crosswords and mahjong in AARP’s games section
• Listening to podcasts or audiobooks using the Libby app, which is free with a library card
• Viewing live webcams of cities and nature at EarthCam.com or taking virtual tours of new places on YouTube

Whether you’re looking to move more, learn something new, or just enjoy a good movie, the internet is full of possibilities. At Family Home Health Network, we believe that aging at home should include joy, connection, and curiosity. Our caregivers can even help clients explore these tools safely and confidently. You’re never too old to discover something new, and now it’s just a click away.