At my startup, we started using free virtual office software called Pragli (pragli.com). It's awesome because it makes us feel like we're working from the same room, even though we are miles apart.
This got me thinking — why can't seniors use Pragli as a free tool to hang out with friends, even when they're not in the same room?
For example, you can join a free Pragli room with your friends and watch YouTube and Facebook together, audio and video chat, text chat – no matter how far apart you are. I'm installing Pragli as a tool for my grandma and her friends to stay in touch and will report back with findings. I think this could be the best way for seniors to stay connected with their friends online.
Here's a video demo: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jRp08WcgCiM&feature=youtu.be
If anyone else is interested in trying this or has comments, feel free to reach out. I'd love to hear your thoughts. My email is ekuebler@uw.edu.