Communication Tools That Will Help Your Ageing Parents Keep In Touch
Collaborative Post
Seniors who stay in touch with their loved ones are less likely to feel lonely or socially isolated. A recent study found that 2.6 million older adults don’t have contact with other people daily. This is why it’s so important to help your parents to stay connected to their nearest and dearest as they get older. Here are a few senior-friendly ways to support them.
Set up an email address
Since 2020, 24% of people aged over 75 have used the internet more often than they previously did. Email is a fairly simple communication tool for seniors even if they have very little experience using a computer. You can set up an email address for free for your parents using a provider, such as Google Mail or Outlook. If your parents are a little unsure, start with you and relatives sending emails to them. As your parents get used to the setup, encourage them to email back. Just make sure you teach them not to open spam emails from people they don’t know. Remind them to keep their email password private and secure too.
Traditional landline
40% of UK households never use their landline, according to surveys. You may think this is because of the digital revolution, but another reason may be because the phone a senior has isn’t suitable for their needs. Older people tend to have declining eyesight, so a phone with big buttons can make it easier for them to make calls. Memory loss is also an issue in some ageing individuals. Switching to a phone that has a built-in phonebook that you can store essential numbers will be useful for your parents if they have memory lapses. No matter what your parents’ needs are, make sure their landline is accessible for them. There are also phones that have extra loud keys and emergency call buttons. Some are even designed for use with hearing aids.
Video communications
In the UK, it’s normal for 225,000 seniors to not speak to anyone face-to-face for at least a week, according to Study Finds. If it’s not possible to meet up with your parents face-to-face, then video communications are the next best thing. Studies have even found that video calls can lower feelings of depression and loneliness in older people. If your parents have a computer, laptop, or tablet, you can hold video calls via Skype, Zoom, or FaceTime. Otherwise, invest in a video calling device for them. Facebook Portal, Amazon Echo Show, and Google Nest Hub Max are just a few to consider. These devices often come in different screen sizes. It’s best to choose the largest screen possible as this will make it easier for your parents to use.
Many seniors are at risk of isolation and loneliness. Thankfully, there are lots of ways you can help your parents to stay in contact with the people that mean the most to them. Once you’ve spent some time showing your parents how to navigate this technology, they’re sure to get the hang of it quickly.
Photo by Tim Kilby on Unsplash
