The Next Best Thing to Being There

What many of us most want to do right now is give our loved ones a big hug and sit down for some intimate heart-to-heart conversation. Unfortunately, that’s just not as possible these days.  However, there are several helpful options to stay in touch with long-distance loved ones, anytime.

Lack of technical knowledge is no longer a reason not to touch base. Most of our favorite restaurants, shops, and corporations are offering online options and may very well continue to do so for quite some time. It is time to help your senior and yourself relieve any fears they may have of online communication.

Tech Considerations for Your Senior

• Check that the device supports:
• Increased sizing for fonts Voice commands
• Volume control or integration with hearing aids
• Larger buttons
• The ability to set up one touch “favorites” for frequently used sites or calls

Source: Caring.com

For Your Own Check-ins

We recommend setting aside a regular time and day each week so your loved one has something to look forward to. It also makes it easier on friends and family who might want to join in occasionally. If they know your video call occurs at the same link every week on Sunday at 5, for example, they might be able to drop in. Having a weekly, or even more often, video chat will help your senior to become more comfortable with the technology.

While this may feel like a time where we are apart, it doesn’t have to be. Through technology, we might be able to draw closer than before.

Communication with Home Care and Medical Teams

Home care and medical teams are also expanding their online communications, to help minimize risk of exposure. Remote appointments are also often an option, as many assessments can be done over phone or video.

Consider checking to see if your loved one’s healthcare providers have a remote option – whether by phone, text, or video chat. If you can avoid having them sit in a waiting room and in an exam room for questions that do not require hands-on care, virtual care makes so much sense. Virtual care options are especially helpful if they are provided by their current primary care doctor, who already knows them well. Prescription refills, recurring medical issues, and even minor concerns can be communicated quickly and without hassle. Check if your insurance covers this sort of “visit.”

Source: CNET

Video Chat Ranks Highest

A recent study investigated modes of social contact and risk of depression in older adults. It found that, while face to face was the number one preferred mode of communication, video chats consistently were able to lower the rates of depression and loneliness in the seniors studied.

Source: US News and World Report

Communication Options