About Us

We are the VSC (Virtual Senior Center). We are a vibrant community of teachers, innovators, and learners combating social isolation in older adults through technology.

Our goal is to see every older adult smiling on screen, learning about and engaging with the rest of the world from the comfort of their own homes.

The VSC is the brainchild of Selfhelp Community Services. Founded in 1936 to support Holocaust survivors, Selfhelp is dedicated to helping people live with dignity and independence. Today, Selfhelp serves over 25,000 New Yorkers every year with affordable housing, expert home care, community programs, and the innovative Virtual Senior Center.

enliveo is the platform that makes the VSC possible. enliveo innovates for human connection, equipping every organization and individual with the ability to craft virtual communities, host their own content, and access online classes and chat rooms. Dive deeper into enliveo at www.enliveo.com.

Classes and Resources Tailored for You

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Classes and Resources Tailored for You 🙌

We understand that every member has unique needs and interests.

That’s why we’ve cultivated a range of specialized classes, partnerships, and recordings designed for a well-rounded experience for everyone.

We partner with leading programs to offer resources that cater to specific needs, ensuring all members can find something meaningful.

  • For individuals with cognitive challenges, such as dementia, Zinnia TV offers a library of calming and interactive videos. This wonderful resource is designed to create moments of connection, relaxation, and gentle engagement, providing comfort for both members and their caregivers.

  • Utilizes the power of reminiscence therapy. Through nostalgic and meaningful content, it helps spark memories and encourages conversations. These shared experiences can strengthen bonds and bring joy by revisiting cherished moments from the past.

  • Explore fascinating destinations across the globe with live, guided virtual tours. Journey to historic cities, natural wonders, and bustling markets without ever leaving your chair.

We are lucky to collaborate with some of New York's most iconic museums and cultural centers, offering our members unparalleled access to art, history, and learning.

VSC: A Lifeline to Learning and Laughing


80%

of VSC members reported experiencing reduced loneliness

60%

noted experiencing increased connectedness

51%

self-reported an increase in health status (well-being)

97%

said VSC improves the quality of their life

Participants also reported they appreciate how attending live online events reduces their social isolation and loneliness and increases their social network


Source: Independent evaluation by Dr. Barrie Raik and Dr. Veerawat Phongtankuel, researchers from the Division of Geriatrics at Weill Cornell Medicine.

Innovation Awards

2021 Quality and Innovation Award Winner

2021 Quality and Innovation Award Winner

2021 Finalist

2021 Finalist

2021 Innovation Award - Runner Up

2021 Innovation Award - Runner Up

The John and Jane Shalam Award to Combat Social Isolation

Selfhelp's Virtual Senior Center on CBS 2 News


VSC In The News

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