At OATS & Senior Planet we have been constantly monitoring events regarding the novel coronavirus in New York City. With the first COVID-19 cases confirmed in our city, we must work together to take precautions for our safety, and keep our community safe. Therefore, in order to prevent the spread of COVID-19, Senior Planet New York City is temporarily suspending all in-person programs effective Monday, March 16, 2020.

In the meantime, the Senior Planet New York City training team is in the process of developing a mechanism to deliver our programming online to older adults. Senior Planet already offers blended-learning, including online modules on Senior Planet U, Zoom lectures, and videos on our YouTube channel, and we’re taking bold steps to shift our in-person programs to these platforms. A Senior Planet Community Outreach Coordinator or Technology Trainer will be in touch via email, or by phone, when these programs are available; this information will also be posted at: https://seniorplanet.org/locations/new-york-city/.

We apologize for any inconvenience this may create, and we encourage everyone to continue to follow safety measures set by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

An important note: you may be hearing the phrase “social distancing” in the news as officials recommend older adults stay at home. Social isolation is already real for many older adults, even in our community of New York City; during a public health crisis, digital connectivity can be a lifeline. We encourage you to engage virtually with us, family and friends, including the friends you’ve made through Senior Planet, even if you’re staying at home. And please connect with Senior Planet on seniorplanet.org, Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter for additional sources of information and support.

If you have any questions regarding Senior Planet New York City’s cancellations and future programming, please contact us by calling 646-590-0615 or email reception@seniorplanet.org.