People’s lives have suddenly turned upside down since the pandemic started. Our usual normal lives became complicated as the health risks increased overtime. The economy is shutting down with many people losing their jobs and small and medium businesses closing down forever. There’s also the increasing anxiety and depression due to the sudden changes in our lives and social interactions.
However, technological advancements have been promising these past few years and it proved to be helpful, especially during these trying times. According to a recent study done by the Pew Research Center, 53% of Americans say the Internet has been essential during the COVID-19 outbreak. The internet has indeed become a necessity. Below are the things that it has helped and improved during the start of the pandemic.
Online social and dating sites
One of the aspects the COVID-19 pandemic has negatively affected is our social lives. Some restrictions that have been implemented are state lockdowns and physical distancing. As a result, we may not see our friends and families as often asbefore. This is where it gets problematic. While it can definitely help in reducing the chances of people contracting the virus, it can also have a bad impact on our physical and mental health.
But online platforms have been helpful in maintaining people’ssocial lives and connections. Social media such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Tiktok, etc. has allowed people to switch their socializing in the digital world. Sending a private message and video calling your friends and family has never been this easy. Checking in with your loved ones is essential during tough times so make sure you still communicate with them.
Besides your friends and family, you may also want to try dating through the internet. Now, someone might think that would be a crazy idea given that we are in the middle of a crisis. However, recent data from Business Insider shows charts from Match Group that more people are turning to online dating during the pandemic.
There are tons of dating sites out there, but if you want to take your online dating to the next level, try matchmaking. The chances of finding someone worthy will be higher because you will get to know people with more similarities as you and you will have a personal matchmaker. Don’t let this pandemic hinder you from committing in a serious relationship. People need all the love that they deserve especially during these rough times.
Delivery Services
Some businesses have already closed permanently as the pandemic progresses. But if you are a business owner or a consumer, you might be aware of the fact that delivery services have gained popularity in the past few months. Entrepreneurs have been taking advantage of this to boost their businesses. Delivery services are usually seen in restaurants or any shops that sell food but today, you can now buy almost everything and have it delivered to your doorstep.
This will be a safer way because your exposure to the outside world will be lessened and thus, decreasing your chances of getting the virus. Just make sure to practice proper health protocols and clean your package as it still came from the outside and might contain the said virus.
Remote work and learning
A lot of people have been spending their time in the comfort of their homes. Schools as well as some companies have implemented distance learning and working remotely for those people who are lucky and got to keep their jobs. Apps like Zoom, Google Meet, Skype, etc. have been very helpful in making these possible.
They offer services like private room meetings and video calls with audios as well. Their video conference features allow multiple people in a room at a time. This allows students, teachers, and business owners to communicate well, maximize their time, and be more efficient.
Entertainment
Staying at home means that your activities outside will be limited. Because of this, many people have been looking for means of entertainment to pass time. Some online apps are offering services so you can watch TV shows and movies in your own time. The most popular ones are Netflix and YouTube. If you are a content creator, you might have heard of this one and you may already have used it.
Besides those, many people have also turned to online gaming for entertainment. Gaming consoles are also readily available if you want other varieties. With these, you can connect with other people all around the world. We can all use a friend during these times.
The pandemic has been very hard on people. What’s worse is nobody knows when this will end. But thankfully, technology exists and has made it incredibly easier for all of us.