With in-person gatherings risky for seniors during the COVID-19 pandemic, Guilherme Gagantini (photo), 80 years old, created an online bingo game called Pandebingo so they could socialize safely online.
Before the pandemic, seniors living in the coastal city of Santos, São Paulo, enjoyed regular in-person opportunities to meet. “We had an event in February, then the pandemic hit,” said Guilherme. “We lost our chance to gather.” Due to social distancing measures, he stayed home every day and stopped walking his dog and meeting friends. “I lost all motivation,” he lamented.
One day in June, recalling rainy seasons with his grandparents, Guilherme had the idea to gather friends virtually to play an online bingo game with prizes donated by “divertinautas” (their name for senior users accessing the site). He added it to Divertidosos (fun seniors), a site he built with web designer Monika Dunko after taking an IT course in his early 70s.
“This solution allowed us to gather to socialize because everyone was feeling the same: a huge longing for friends,” explains Monika. She said that social distancing had a clear impact on seniors’ lives, “Because they hardly leave home, many of them became depressed,” she said.
According to Guilherme, more than 50 people participate in the game. “It’s a tremendous success! When we distribute the prizes, we bring so much joy,” he said. The prizes are delivered to the winner’s home following safety and hygiene recommendations.
Combating Loneliness
“I don’t even like bingo,” said retired Brazilian teacher Jurema do Amaral Castro. She was convinced to play the game after donating some of her crafts to be given as prizes. She ended up winning several prizes herself and has since participated in every bingo game.
“It’s good because you see a friend you haven’t been able to meet for a long time. Even if the friend wins, you feel happy. It’s fabulous energy,” she said. Now, Jurema and her 87-year-old aunt play bingo with the group every Saturday.
“It’s a very good initiative,” exclaimed Jurema. She has five grandchildren and uses the internet to stay in touch with them. “I talk to other people often, as I have children and grandchildren. For those who don’t have family, Divertidosos is everything for them,” she said.
UN Report on Digital Innovation
In May, the United Nations released a policy brief with recommendations to protect seniors during the pandemic. According to the report, digital technology should be enhanced to mitigate movement restrictions that can disrupt essential care, support, and social inclusion for seniors.
“This is vital for seniors who may face great suffering and isolation during lockdowns and other restrictions,” said United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres.
Source: United Nations