NIAGARA FALLS, N.Y. — Reid Henry, 73, is a ceramic designer by trade and created stained glass windows for churches in West Africa for 11 years.

"We had a studio. Seventy windows for a dozen churches," said Henry.

What You Need To Know

  • GetSetUp is an online virtual learning platform for older adults

  • The program offers a number of free classes

  • The platform recently teamed up with NYSOFA to promote financial literacy

He now works out of his home, but continues to learn more about different crafts and a wide range of other topics, thanks to a link he received from the New York State Office for Aging Services to an online platform called GetSetUp, which is designed for older adults.

"They're very helpful. Not only informative, but also genuine, you know. It combats isolation. And I think this gives people a sense of purpose and you can focus on doing something productive rather than sitting around an being unhappy," he said.

The virtual learning platform launched four years ago, months before the COVID-19 pandemic, and offers an expanded number of classes for older adults, taught by older adults, like basic tech, photography and cooking.

"More than a million classes have been taken by New Yorkers. They're making friends. They're learning wonderful new things. They're connecting with others," said Lawrence Kosick, president and co-founder of GetSetUp.

Platform creators recently partnered with the Office for Aging Services to promote financial literacy, with additional programming like budget basics and managing debt, for retirees and others who may be on a fixed income.

"We're all living longer. We have to think more about savings, about our financial security. Some of us may need to work a little longer, so what are the job skills needed to do that?" said Kosick.

Henry still enjoys working and says he has no plans to retire anytime soon, but is still interested in learning more.

"I'm getting to be more and more careful. So you have to find creative ways of reducing your expenses," said Henry.

That is why he encourages all older adults to log on, no matter their interest, and join.

"Many if not most of them feel as though they've got a lot of time on their hands, and a good way to prevent worrying or feeling as if you're not accomplishing anything is to get involved," he said.

Classes are free and available in a handful of languages.