Technology makes it easier than ever for seniors to stay connected with family and friends, even if they live far away. It’s a convenient means to cultivate and nurture social interactions, which is beneficial for senior well-being. With more tools and devices designed to help seniors stay in touch in 2025, maintaining connections with loved ones has never been easier.
Video Calling Made Easy
Video calling has transformed how we communicate with our loved ones. Seeing someone's face as you talk to them can make a conversation feel more personal. Video calling has several popular platform options, including Zoom, Skype, and FaceTime, and setup for each is easy.
- For Zoom: Download the app on your smartphone or computer. Sign up for an account using your email address. When you are ready to start a call, click "New Meeting" and invite others by sending them the link.
- For Skype: Skype follows a similar process. Download the app and create a free account. You can then search for contacts you want to call and add them to your list. Simply click the video call button next to their name to start talking.
- For FaceTime: If you have an Apple device, FaceTime is a straightforward option. Open the FaceTime app, enter the contact's phone number or email, and tap the video button.
Whichever platform you choose, ensure a smooth video call by setting up your device in a quiet, well-lit area. Don't hesitate to ask for help if you are unsure about volume or camera settings.
Social Media Basics
Social media is a well-liked and widely used way to reconnect with friends and family. It’s also a great platform for catching up with your favorite news and entertainment. Facebook is one of the most popular of these platforms. Visit Facebook's website or app and use your email address to sign up. Create a simple profile by adding a photo and basic information. You can then search for and send friend requests to loved ones.
Some seniors may prefer Instagram for its photo and video sharing. Download the app and sign up. Follow family members to see their photos and updates and use the heart icon to like posts and leave comments. Remember to adjust your privacy settings to maintain personal boundaries.
Explore Online Communities
Online communities allow seniors to engage with others who share their interests. AARP Online Community offers a friendly space for discussion and support. Facebook Groups allow you to search for and join groups related to your interests. Reddit hosts many community "subreddits" focused on various hobbies and topics. Remember to stick to reputable platforms where other seniors actively contribute.
How to Ensure Online Safety
Seniors are often the target of various online scams. Create strong passwords using a variety of letters, numbers, and symbols. Be wary of phishing attempts like emails or messages asking for personal information. Regularly update your software to keep security features current. Don’t hesitate to seek help from tech-savvy family members. It is always better to be cautious and ask for help if you’re unsure about something online.
Stay Connected With Support From Senior Helpers
If you’re considering additional support at home to give you more time to stay connected with loved ones, contact Senior Helpers Burnsville. Serving seniors in Burnsville, Saint Paul, Cottage Grove, and Hastings, we provide personalized senior home care, from companionship to personal care, helping them thrive in their golden years.