Video calls, texting, and social media genuinely help solo agers stay connected, but the research is fairly consistent: they supplement in-person contact well, and substitute for it poorly over the long term.
Where technology helps most
Maintaining existing relationships across distance, and as a bridge to arranging future in-person contact.
Where it falls short
Passive scrolling or one-way media consumption doesn't meaningfully reduce loneliness, even when it feels like "spending time with people."
Use video calls to schedule the next in-person meetup, rather than letting them become a permanent substitute for one.