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Surprising Remote Services for Seniors

Life in independent or assisted living can be active, social, and full of things you enjoy. From activities to walks around Providence, there are plenty of ways to spend your time. But some tasks, such as doctor visits, legal meetings, or errands, can be a burden. 

Today, many of these tasks can be done right from your home at Charlesgate. With technology and online services, you can save time and energy while still taking care of your needs. These remote services let you focus on what matters most to you. 

Telehealth and remote health services 

A surprising amount of your healthcare and wellness needs can be met without leaving your apartment.  

Telehealth lets you speak with your doctor or therapist through a video call. You can have routine checkups, talk about symptoms, or set up regular appointments without driving to the office and risking exposure to illness. Many insurances cover telehealth appointments, and some urgent care issues can be addressed over the phone. Medicare will continue to pay for most telehealth services through Dec. 31, 2027, due to an extension passed in early 2026. In Rhode Island, Medicaid also covers telehealth.  

Many pharmacies also offer online prescription management and delivery, bringing your medicine right to you. 

Mental health is important, too. Some therapists offer sessions online or over the phone. For those with Medicare Part B insurance, counseling is covered. It’s also covered under Medicaid in Rhode Island.  

Some health professionals provide virtual fitness sessions with a trainer or specialist. On YouTube, you can find free classes in Pilates, balance exercises, gentle strength training, and more. 

Legal and financial help from home 

Certain legal and financial tasks no longer require in-person visits.person visits. 

In many states, including Rhode Island, online notarization is now possible for wills, powers of attorney, and other important documents. A trained notary can witness your signature through a secure video call, making this task simpler and faster. 

You can also work virtually with attorneys to review estate plans or legal documents. For taxes, some services will help prepare and file returns online, with secure video calls to answer questions. 

Make sure to check local laws or ask a professional before you begin virtual legal services. 

Online learning and hobbies 

You can learn and grow from home with online classes that go beyond simple videos. 

Programs such as GetSetUp offer interactive, live classes for older adults on topics such as digital skills, healthy cooking, travel talks, history, art, and more. These are designed specifically for seniors and are offered through the Rhode Island Office of Healthy Aging. Residents age 55 and older can access these classes easily from a tablet or computer.  

Many public libraries also connect to online learning platforms where you can take classes or connect to group discussions. These can help you learn new skills while meeting people with similar interests. 

Local colleges in Rhode Island also provide online opportunities for continued learning. Some even offer tuition waiver programs for seniors.  

Look at the websites for local art and craft stores, museums, community centers, cooking schools, or dance schools for virtual events and workshops. Or, check out the bulletin board at your favorite coffee shop. 

Online volunteering and advocacy 

Remote services can also expand your social life and sense of purpose. 

Virtual volunteer options allow you to help with tasks such as tutoring students or supporting nonprofit projects from your home. 

Watch broadcast court cases or local government meetings to stay informed and engaged with what is happening in your community without needing to go out. 

Everyday convenience from your apartment 

Technology can also make everyday life easier. Grocery delivery services let you order online and deliver to your door.  

Virtual concierge services help with tasks such as scheduling appointments, setting up transportation, or managing reservations. 

Remote services give you back your time and energy. By taking care of appointments, learning, planning, and errands from home, you can spend more time doing the things you love. With a few simple tools, the world is at your fingertips.