Tips for Helping Your Loved Ones Use Video Calling

There are many reasons you might not be able to see your aging loved ones as often as you’d like. The good news is that video calling is an alternative way to stay connected, and many aging adults can learn to use video calling features. FaceTime, Skype, and Zoom are particularly intuitive services and apps for all ages. However, some aging adults are hesitant to use such technology. Learn more about how video calling is beneficial, which services are the best and how to make loved ones comfortable with using them.

The Benefit of Connecting Through Video Calls

While making a standard phone call is still the most common way that people check in with each other, video calling is becoming more popular, especially amid the coronavirus pandemic in 2020. The benefit of changing how you talk to your loved ones is making a deeper connection because you can physically see how they’re doing.

Video calls give you and them the opportunity to visually share recent projects. Seeing facial expressions during a conversation also makes a world of difference. On top of that, video calling can become a daily resource for social activities, special events, and even emergencies.

Best Programs and Apps for Video Calls

There are several video calling apps and services for smart devices. The most user-friendly ones for aging adults are FaceTime, Skype, and Zoom. In general, FaceTime is the preferred service to use if your loved ones have iPhones or iPads. The app is already installed and works very similar to answering a standard phone call.

However, whoever your loved ones call via FaceTime must also have Apple devices and use that service. If that’s not the case, installing Skype or Zoom is a solid alternative. Skype is a universal program that allows for standard calling, messaging and video calling. Aging adults can use it to connect with anyone in their contacts.

Although Zoom was created for businesses, setting up an account is free. Additionally, it’s the ideal service if your loved ones want to make video calls with multiple people at the same time.

How to Help Aging Adults Use Video Calling

Aging adults are often apprehensive about video calling simply because they feel intimidated to try something with which they’re unfamiliar. Some of them worry about not being able to use the technology correctly or making themselves a target for predators.

Fortunately, you can ease their fears by explaining how the technology works and walking them through the basics. Follow these steps, and keep in mind that it’s better to do this in person:

• Start by ensuring that they understand the basic functions of their smart devices.
• Install the most user-friendly service or app. If you’ve never used it before, get familiar with it beforehand.
• Provide instructions for how to make and answer a video call, and then practice doing both.
• If they struggle, clarify your instructions in a calm and collected tone. Avoid sounding angry or frustrated because it could make them feel attacked and deter them from wanting to learn.

After they get used to making video calls, introduce other ways to use their smart devices to connect with family members and friends.

Ask a Caregiver for Assistance

If you are unable to assist in-person with setting up video calling for your loved one, a caregiver may be able to assist. Providing assistance with correspondence is one of the many ways a caregiver through Caring Home Care can assist your loved one.