You may have heard people say, “It’s so easy to stay in touch nowadays!” However, staying in touch is not easy unless you know how to do it. Studies show that seniors who stay in touch with their loved ones live healthier and happier lives. Spending quality time with loved ones is always important and beneficial, but sometimes it’s just not possible. You and your loved ones might be too busy to visit each other, so it’s important to know how to stay in touch. Technology for seniors allows you to maintain your relationships and be up to date on your loved ones’ lives. We’ve compiled some tips on how to use technology for seniors!
3 Ways to Use Technology for Seniors to Stay in Touch
Phone Calls
One of the easiest ways to stay in touch with loved ones is through phone calls. If you do not have a cell phone already, you may find having one to be very helpful! Not only will you be able to call your loved ones on your cell phone, but you can call from anywhere! Even if you’re not home, you can still talk on the phone. You may be wary of getting a cell phone because they are complicated. However, there are many different types of cell phones. There are even cell phones made specifically for seniors! No matter what kind of phone you get, you can speak to a sales representative about how to use it. A cell phone is a great piece of technology for seniors that is relatively easy to use.
A great way to keep in contact with your loved ones through the phone is to schedule phone calls. You can set up a weekly phone call with your granddaughter, friend, etc. at a specific time. This way, you both have a time blocked out of your schedule to talk. You will also have something to look forward to during the week!
Video Chat
An even better way to remain in touch is through video chat. On video chat, you can see your loved ones as well as talk to them. There are several different platforms on which you can video chat. The most popular is FaceTime. FaceTime is available on either the iPhone or a Mac computer. If you have one of these devices, you will already have FaceTime. However, the person you are FaceTiming must also have one of these devices in order for the call to work.
If you or your loved one does not have an iPhone or Mac computer, don’t worry! You can still use a different platform such as Skype, Google Hangouts, or even Facebook to video chat. All of these platforms can be downloaded onto any computer or smartphone. This means that if you don’t have your own computer, you can still use a community computer to contact your loved ones!
Emails
You may already be familiar with email and you probably already have one! Email is one of the best forms of technology for seniors because it is very simple and helpful. There are several different websites that you can use to write emails. The best thing about email is that you can email anyone with an email from any website. You are not confined to one website. Email is also great because you can send the same email to several different people. This means that you do not have to repeat information, but rather everyone can read the same information at the same time!
You can also scan and send important documents over email. This is helpful for financial documents or other documents relating to your living situation. The downside of email is that the recipient may not read your email right away. Although your loved one will receive the email after you send it, it could take a some time for them to see it.
Now you know all of the different types of technology for seniors! You can now stay in touch with your loved ones no matter where you live. Looking for a fresh start? You can browse our assisted living facilities, independent living facilities, or home care options to find the perfect place for you!
