Some days can feel very quiet when you live alone. You might go a long time without a real conversation. That is common, and it is nothing to be embarrassed about.
There is a free program called Well Connected that brings older adults together by phone or online. You can join conversations, learn something new, or enjoy activities without leaving your home.
Here’s how it works, who can participate, and how to sign up.
What Is Well Connected?
Well Connected is a free virtual community for adults ages 60 and older. It is operated by Front Porch, a nonprofit organization.
The program offers group activities by phone and online throughout the year, including weekends and holidays. Topics include art, travel, music, reading, writing, support groups, meditation, and more.
You may have heard of Well Connected under another name. It was previously operated by Covia, which merged with Front Porch in 2022. The program now operates under Front Porch.
You do not have to travel to a senior center or attend activities in person. You can participate from home or wherever you feel comfortable.
Who Can Join, and What Does It Cost?
Well Connected is available to adults ages 60 and older nationwide.
The program is free to participants. Front Porch does not list an income limit or disability requirement on its main program page.
You also do not have to be homebound or live alone to participate. The groups are designed for older adults who want opportunities to connect, learn, and spend time with others.
There is also Well Connected Español, which offers free activities in Spanish for adults ages 60 and older.
You can explore either program based on your language preference and interests.
What Kinds of Groups Are Available?
Well Connected offers a variety of activities, so you can look for something that interests you.
Depending on the current schedule, you may find:
- Conversation groups: Casual discussions and opportunities to meet other people.
- Arts and music: Activities focused on creativity, music, and appreciation of the arts.
- Learning groups: Topics such as history, science, health, and armchair travel.
- Books and writing: Reading discussions, storytelling, and creative writing.
- Games and activities: Trivia, word games, and other group activities.
- Mindfulness and wellness: Meditation, relaxation, and discussions about well-being.
- Supportive conversations: Groups where participants discuss shared experiences and challenges.
Past catalogs have also included supportive groups related to grief, vision loss, chronic pain, and other health concerns.
However, not every group is offered every season. The schedule changes, so you will need to check the current calendar to see what is available.
Once you are enrolled, you can explore different activities and choose the ones that interest you. Some groups have limited space or require advance registration.
How Do You Sign Up and Join?
Getting started with Well Connected does not require visiting an office.
Here are the basic steps:
- Visit the official website. Go to the Well Connected page and select the Enroll Now option.
- Complete the enrollment process. Follow the instructions provided by Front Porch. If you need assistance, you can contact the program using the information on its website.
- Review the current calendar. After enrolling, look through the available groups, dates, and times.
- Choose an activity. Select a group that interests you and check whether advance registration is required.
- Follow the joining instructions. Depending on the activity, you may participate by phone or online.
If you join by phone, you will need to follow the dialing and meeting instructions provided for that group.
If you join online, you will need an internet-connected device and the appropriate meeting information.
The exact connection instructions can change, so use the current calendar rather than an older program catalog.
If you are unfamiliar with phone conferences or online meetings, ask the Well Connected team to explain how to join.
Front Porch has also offered accessible program materials in formats such as large print, braille, audio, and text. Ask which formats and accommodations are currently available if you need them.
What If You Prefer Phone Groups?
Not everyone enjoys video calls or large in-person gatherings.
One helpful feature of Well Connected is that you can participate in activities by phone. You do not necessarily need a computer, camera, or video connection to join a phone-based group.
This may appeal to older adults who prefer listening and speaking rather than appearing on screen.
Some groups also focus on a specific topic, such as books, music, or travel. Having a shared subject can make it easier to participate in a conversation.
Well Connected is not specifically an autism program, and Front Porch does not advertise it as one. However, older adults with different communication preferences can contact the program to ask which groups and participation options might work best for them.
You can explore the schedule, try activities that interest you, and decide which ones you would like to attend again.
What Are the Limits?
Well Connected offers opportunities for social connection, but there are a few things to understand before joining.
Some groups may fill up. Activities with limited space may require advance registration, and enrollment may close when a group reaches capacity.
The calendar changes. A group offered during one season may not appear in the next schedule.
The program is virtual. Well Connected does not provide transportation, meals, home care, or in-person assistance through its group activities.
You need a way to connect. Phone groups require telephone access, while online activities require an internet connection and a compatible device.
If you need help with meals, transportation, or other daily needs, your local Area Agency on Aging may be able to connect you with additional services.
You can also read our guide to volunteer help for seniors for other types of assistance that may be available.
Relief Recap
If you are 60 or older and would like more opportunities to talk with people, learn something new, or enjoy activities from home, Well Connected may be worth exploring.
The program offers free phone and online groups nationwide, with topics ranging from music and travel to conversation and supportive discussions.
You do not need to meet an income requirement or be homebound to participate. However, group schedules, space, and registration requirements can vary.
Visit the official Well Connected website to enroll and explore the current calendar. Spanish-speaking older adults can also look into Well Connected Español.
If you are looking for additional resources, our guide to help for seniors without a family includes more places to turn for support.
