In this new age of COVID-19, the way we communicate and stay in touch with our friends, family, and co-workers is changing drastically. While we used technology to communicate before the coronavirus, we are now heavily relying on text messaging, phone calls, and video chats if we want to talk to or see our loved ones. This is certainly no exception for senior citizens, who are high-risk and most susceptible to catching the virus. For this reason, it’s important that your senior know how to use a video chat platform like Skype so they can still see family and friends. Here’s how you can easily teach them.

Make it Simple

One of the best things you can do to make this process easy for your senior loved one to pick up is to keep the process simple. Don’t overcomplicate the steps taken. Make sure they know the basics. How to locate the Skype icon on either their phone or computer (or both!); show them how to locate the person they wish to call; and completing the process of making a video call.

Write it Down

Now that you’ve outlined the basic Skype steps for your senior, write the steps down for them. Even though it is best if they can memorize how to access Skype and make a video call from memory, it’s better to be safe than sorry and write out an easy list for them to follow in case they forget.

Repeat, Repeat, Repeat

Once you have gone through the process with them a couple times, have them physical repeat these steps on their own while you oversee, multiple times over. The process should become habitual for them so they are less likely to forget how to use Skype when you’re not with them.

Extra Advice

While you’re explaining the process, make comparisons they can relate to. For example, selecting a person to call is just like finding someone in a physical address book. If you see your senior getting frustrated or confused, slow down and answer any questions they have. Lastly, it is also helpful that your senior knows how to use their volume keys so they can hear the best, and that they know how to end a video call once they’ve said goodbye.

Do you need further advice for teaching your senior loved one how to video chat during these historic times? Feel free to call and chat with our experts here at Home Care Assistance today!

GET IN TOUCH WITH US