Some ideas on how to socialize—without being together physically

Posted: Mon, Mar 30, 2020 11:46 AM

PHOTO ID: "Image by secondfromthesun0 from Pixabay"

Just because we cannot physically be around each other during the COVID-19 outbreak doesn't mean we can't connect to one another through technology such as Facebook, Zoom, or Skype. Los Angeles-based travel and lifestyle expert Lindsay Myers is sharing some ideas:

"There are many apps and websites, such as Facebook Workplace, Zoom, Instagram live, Google Hangouts, or Skype, that allow us all to group chat and keep the happy hour going. This is a tough time for us all. So whether you just make coffee dates or do some crazy activities, being virtually social and seeing the people we love sure help our mental and emotional state. Here are just a few suggestions.

--Dinner Parties: Either all eat the same type of cuisine, or just eat dinner and hang out. It's all about the company.

--Movie Night: All play the same movie and pop some popcorn.

--Book Club: Pick a book and have a virtual discussion.

--Costume Party: Name a theme and have everyone dress up.

--Birthday Party: Just because you can't be with one another doesn't mean you can't celebrate—have everyone sing along.

And let's not forget about phone calls! A phone app called ConferenceNow works very well. No signup, no cost (free), and the conference site is yours 24/7. Call the specified number, enter the pin, and it all works. Audio quality is excellent. One other nice feature is that those who wish to speak and not interrupt someone can raise their hand by striking the asterisk key and enter the discussion.

More suggestions can be found here.