Tips to Help Your Elderly Loved One Stay in Touch With Family
As we get older, our loved ones may move away, and it isn’t easy to maintain the same type of contact we used to have. This is particularly true when family members move a distance away, and it’s hard to drive. Some seniors can’t drive as far as they used to, and families can get busy with work life. This past year has been especially hard for elderly individuals and their families due to COVID-19. The coronavirus has hindered many people from seeing their loved ones due to quarantine issues, limits on gatherings, and illness.If you’re an older adult, you may wonder how you can keep in better touch with your loved ones. Even if you can’t visit in person, it’s crucial to stay in touch with family and friends. Fortunately, seniors and digital technology is a solution that helps connect loved ones together. The following solutions are some technology options to consider.
Facebook Messenger
The Facebook Messenger app is connected through a Facebook account. But it can be used as a standalone application, meaning you don’t have to have Facebook to use it. Simply download the messenger app. You will be asked if you are linking it to a Facebook account or using it without Facebook and with a phone number instead. Select the appropriate answer and put in your password or phone number.The Messenger app works on mobile and desktop applications. It allows you to chat either by texting back and forth or by making video calls. It also has some other built-in features you may like, including sending and receiving money. This could come in handy if you want to send money to a grandchild for getting good grades or for a birthday present.You can also share some “movie time” with a loved one if you can’t get together. This allows you to see each other’s reactions as you’re watching the movie.
Skype
Skype is another easy-to-use Microsoft application that has been around just under two decades. It also works on all systems, such as mobile phones, desktop and laptop computers, tablets, and more. You can get started using Skype’s free services, which include phone calls anywhere in the United States, video calling, messaging, sharing screenshots, and watching a movie together. Skype can connect you with several of your relatives at once. So, if you’re thinking of having a virtual family reunion, go for it.The steps to get started with Skype are:
Step 1: Download the app to whatever device you’re going to use.
Step 2: Create an account — it’s free, so there are no worries.
Step 3: Sign in to your account and get started.
WhatsApp is another option for connecting with your loved ones via smartphone, computer, or tablet. However, keep in mind that WhatsApp’s creators have updated the app so it only works on newer model phones and software. The current operating systems it can accommodate are at least iOS 9 or Android 4.0.3. This should work for most people. But, if you have a Samsung Galaxy S2 or iPhone 4, it won’t.With WhatsApp, you can make a one-on-one video call with a family member or call up to eight people at once. You can also send and receive messages, videos, photos, and documents. If you’re a grandparent, you may enjoy receiving a photo of your grandchildren right to your device as well as talking to them virtually.If you use a computer to access WhatsApp, make sure you have Windows 8.1 or newer for it to work correctly.To get started with WhatsApp, you can download it from the Microsoft store or WhatsApp website.If you want to use this on your phone, you can get it from the Google Play Store if you have an Android or the Apple App Store if you have an iPhone.Once you have downloaded the app, you’ll be prompted to enter your phone number to confirm the account. The app will send you a verification code that you enter and then you’re ready to go. You can download your contacts, so it’s easier to manage your video calls and chats.
Google Duo
Google Duo is owned by Google and is a more recent creation. It works on just about all devices, such as Android phones, iPhones, tablets, computers, and smart displays, like the Google Nest Hub Max. You can make video calls with your loved ones and even take a photo of the video chat to send to another family member or just to have for yourself. Through Google Duo, you can send a note or voice or video message with creative effects.The app will tap into your contact list, so you can select the person you want to call from the list. If you don’t have contacts saved or don’t want to upload them, you can dial the number directly.
Find Elder Home Caregiver Support with Golden Care
Using technology to contact your loved ones is an ideal way to keep connected. However, it can seem overwhelming to get it started. The directions may look complicated, or you might not know where to start. Don’t give it another thought when you have Golden Care by your side. An elderly caregiver will assist you in setting up your devices so that you can keep in touch with your loved ones.Golden Care is a 5-star elderly care service provider catering to all of our San Diego seniors that require specialized care. Our services are customized and personalized, allowing seniors to live comfortably all-year-round. Whether you need someone to come out to your home and help you with light housekeeping, or you need Companion Care or more, we will work with you to create a high-quality care program.
Some of the services we offer include:
- General housekeeping
- Laundry assistance
- Transportation services
- Assistance with dressing, bathing, and grooming
- Hobby assistance
- Nutritional assistance
Get in touch with Golden Care for more information about our concierge of Senior Home Care.
Help is only a phone call away. Call (760) 828-5201 today.
