Interactive learning and socialization for older Vermonters this winter through GetSetUp

For Immediate Release

Contact:  

Luke Rackers, Director of Development and Communications
Central Vermont Council on Aging 
802-479-1953, [email protected] 

Interactive learning and socialization for older Vermonters this winter through GetSetUp

With free access to thousands of peer-based online classes, The Vermont Association of Area Agencies on Aging (V4A) is making it easy for Vermonters 60+ to stay active and social this holiday and winter.

Montpellier, Vermont Dec. 14, 2022: The Vermont Association of Area Agencies on Aging (V4A), through their partnership with GetSetUp, is offering Vermont residents 60+ interactive online programming specifically designed to increase activity and wellness for older adults. Classes cover topics from how to effectively use digital technology, to health and wellness through fitness and cooking to a full range of enrichment classes. Vermonters can access thousands of interactive classes taught by older adults to their peers on GetSetUp that are accessible at the click of a button around the clock.

43% of those 60 and older reported feeling lonely, and this often gets worse during the winter when weather conditions and the holidays can lead people to feel more isolated. V4A is offering GetSetUp classes as a simple and equitable way to connect with others right from one’s home throughout the holiday season and the winter.

The GetSetUp program also helps active agers become more fit, learn to manage their finances, develop new skills, and even supplement their income. Special “New Year, New Me” programming is running into the new year to help people accomplish their new year's goals in one or all three learning tracks on Health and Wellness, Money and Business, and Growth and Development. Plus, classes are available in multiple languages including English, Mandarin, Hindi, and a growing number of weekly classes in Spanish.

GetSetUp helps to address aging health by assuring older adults stay connected to the technical tools they need to thrive and age in place at home including the latest technologies and software. Research has shown that older adults who learn how to utilize their tech devices to stay connected with family, and interact with others will age more successfully.

“I’m a traditionalist. I like to listen to people give a talk and interact. That’s the wonderful thing about GetSetUp - you can be in on a Zoom call and ask a question as it immediately occurs to you. That’s really outstanding! . . . Technology is really becoming an essential thing to know. GetSetUp is a perfect example of where to go. The learning experiences through GetSetUp enable people to manage the technical part of their lives. It’s a great thing,” said Vermont Learner Bruce.

GetSetUp’s custom-built video learning interface has been tailored to older adults of all tech levels. The platform offers support via phone and in all classes to assist learners with technology, and includes a booking system complete with regular reminders and after-class notes. Vermont’s older adults can easily connect with a safe community of over 4.6 million peers globally.

“We know that the holidays and winter season can be a festive time for many people but also a time where others feel particularly alone. We want to remind people that there are empowering learning and socialization opportunities on GetSetUp,” said Lawrence Kosick, the President and Co-Founder of GetSetUp. “We offer opportunities around the clock to learn and socialize with just a click of a button. We look forward to seeing more Vermonters in our upcoming sessions!”

Mary Hayden, Executive Director of V4A noted, “Nearly three thousand classes have been attended by older Vermonters on GetSetUp. These learners were able to connect with others, and learn about cooking, gardening, and exercising in classes on yoga, tai chi, and stretching. They have also been sharing social interests in art, culture, literature, and more. The classes are free to Vermonters 60+! We encourage you to visit Vermont’s GetSetUp link below and sign up.”

Older adults in Vermont can access these services by visiting: https://www.getsetup.io/partner/vermont

About GetSetUp

GetSetUp is on a mission to help those over 55 learn new skills, connect with others and unlock new life experiences. The social learning platform helps over 4.6 million older adults in 160 countries stay mentally and physically fit, creates economic opportunities through jobs and reskilling, and provides a community where people find meaning and purpose by sharing their knowledge and passions and forming new connections. Classes are taught by older adults on a highly interactive, custom-built video platform where older adults can connect during and in between classes. Classes are taught in English, Spanish, Hindi, and Mandarin. Learn more at https://www.getsetup.org

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Central Vermont Council on Aging (CVCOA) supports older Central Vermonters to age with dignity and choice in 54 towns.  Visit the CVCOA website at www.cvcoa.org or call the CVCOA Helpline at 1-802-477-1364 for more information or assistance. CVCOA is located at 59 North Main Street, Suite 200 in Barre with regional offices located in Morrisville, Randolph, South Royalton and Rochester.