Video chat is a fantastic way to keep in touch – often the only way – in the era of COVID-19. Unless your aging loved ones live with you, chances are you need a smartphone or tablet to keep in touch with them. We’re here to help navigate what can sometimes be an intimidating world for seniors.

These easy-to-use apps will help keep you in contact with your loved one during the current pandemic. We’ve also thrown in some tips for how to get the senior in your life to embrace technology.

Apps to Use

FaceTime

Does your loved one have an iPhone or iPad? If so, FaceTime is your best bet. It comes standard, is relatively intuitive, and is great for one-on-one or family conversations. Use Apple’s FaceTime primer to help your loved one get started!

Zoom

Zoom is all the rage these days. People are using this videoconference service for everything from fitness classes and schoolwork to virtual happy hours and birthday parties. Well, it’s great for virtual family get-togethers, too! You might have to talk your loved one through some of the setup and logistics, but Zoom is fairly easy to use on a computer, smartphone, or tablet and has apps for both Apple and Android devices.

Skype

Skype has been a videochat staple for a while now, and while it’s been overshadowed by Zoom’s recent rise, it is a solid option. Setup is straightforward. Just download the app. As is the case with Zoom, Skype generates unique meeting links that you share with participants. It’s more or less that simple. Find more information on getting started with Skype here!

Google Hangouts

With video and voice chat capabilities and sleek messaging features, Google Hangouts is a great all-in-one communication tool – especially if your senior loved one is tech savvy. It integrates easily with Gmail accounts, a big plus if both you and your loved one have accounts. With so many ways to stay connected via Hangouts, it’s a great choice for keeping in touch during the coronavirus outbreak! Here’s what you need to know to get started.

Phone Calls

Don’t forget about the old standby, no-frills way to stay in touch – phone calls!

A Few Tips

Be Patient

Seniors can get frustrated with technology, so be patient as you’re teaching them.

Get Them a Smartphone or Tablet

If your loved one enjoys technology or is eager to learn, get them a smartphone or tablet. Not only will it allow them to see your face, but they can download games to pass the time and keep up on the news. If they have a smartphone already, consider a tablet so they can have a bigger screen to work with.

Tout the Benefits

Having trouble nudging your loved one toward technology? Be sure to remind them of the payoff – getting to see their family’s faces. It’s the type of personal experience you just don’t get from a traditional phone call.