How do I handle a long gap on my résumé? after 15 years as a social media manager

I have been out of work for 8 months and worry about the gap. I have read a lot of threads here and could not find my exact situation. I am nervous about being filtered out. What do you say in interviews?

Keep your skills fresh and mention anything recent. It shows momentum.

I was hired after a 8-month gap. The manager said the skills test mattered more than the dates.