Helping Seniors Stay Connected with Video Calls

Loneliness is one of the biggest health challenges facing older adults. Studies show that social isolation can be as harmful as smoking 15 cigarettes a day. Video calling has become one of the most powerful tools for keeping seniors connected with family, friends, and community, but getting started can feel overwhelming.

This guide breaks down the three most popular video calling platforms into simple, manageable steps.

Before You Start

What You Need

• A smartphone, tablet, or computer with a camera
• A reliable internet connection (Wi-Fi is best)
• The email address or phone number of the person you want to call

Choosing the Right Platform

If both you and the person you're calling have iPhones or iPads, FaceTime is the simplest option. For everything else, Zoom and Google Meet work on any device.

FaceTime: The Simplest Option for Apple Users

FaceTime comes pre-installed on every iPhone and iPad, which means there's nothing to download.

How to Make a FaceTime Call

1. Open the FaceTime app (the green icon with a white video camera).
2. Tap the New FaceTime button at the top.
3. Type in the name, phone number, or email of the person you want to call.
4. Tap the green Video button to start the call.

Tips for a Better Experience

• Hold the device at eye level. Prop a tablet against something sturdy so it doesn't wobble. This creates a more natural, face-to-face feeling.
• Find good lighting. Sit facing a window or lamp so your face is well-lit. Avoid sitting with a bright light behind you.
• Speak normally. You don't need to shout. The microphone is very sensitive.
• If the call quality is poor, try moving closer to your Wi-Fi router.

Zoom: Great for Group Calls

Zoom is the most popular video calling platform for group calls and is widely used by families, community groups, and healthcare providers.

Getting Set Up

1. Download the Zoom app from the App Store (iPhone/iPad) or Google Play Store (Android).
2. Open the app and tap Sign Up to create a free account using your email.
3. Follow the prompts to verify your email and set a password.

Joining a Zoom Call

Most of the time, someone will send you a link to join their Zoom meeting. Here's what to do:

1. Tap the link in the text message or email you received.
2. The Zoom app will open automatically.
3. Tap Join with Video so the other person can see you.
4. Tap Join with Audio or Call Using Internet Audio so you can hear and be heard.

Starting Your Own Zoom Call

1. Open the Zoom app and tap New Meeting.
2. Make sure the video toggle is turned on, then tap Start a Meeting.
3. Tap Participants at the bottom, then Invite to send a link to family or friends via text or email.

Common Questions

"I can see them but they can't see me." Check if your camera is turned on. Look for a video camera icon at the bottom of the screen and make sure it doesn't have a red line through it.

"I can't hear anything." Make sure your volume is turned up. Also check that you selected "Join with Audio" when you entered the call.

"The screen shows my name but no video." Tap the camera icon at the bottom of the screen to turn your video on.

Google Meet: No Download Needed

Google Meet works directly in a web browser, which makes it one of the easiest options if you don't want to install another app.

How to Join a Google Meet Call

1. Someone will send you a link (it starts with meet.google.com).
2. Tap or click the link.
3. Your browser will ask for permission to use your camera and microphone. Tap Allow.
4. Tap Join Now.

How to Start a Google Meet Call

1. Go to meet.google.com in your web browser.
2. Sign in with your Google account (Gmail).
3. Tap New Meeting, then Start an Instant Meeting.
4. Share the meeting link with the person you want to call.

General Tips for Seniors Using Video Calls

• Practice before the real call. Try a test call with a patient family member first.
• Write down the steps. Keep a simple cheat sheet near your phone or computer.
• Don't worry about mistakes. If the call drops or something goes wrong, just call again. It happens to everyone.
• Keep your device charged. Video calls use more battery than regular phone calls.
• Close other apps first. This helps your device run the video call more smoothly.

Making It a Habit

The best way to get comfortable with video calls is to make them a regular part of your routine. Consider scheduling a weekly video call with your children or grandchildren. Many families have found that a standing "Sunday video dinner" or "Wednesday morning coffee call" becomes something everyone looks forward to.

When You Need Help

Learning new technology can be frustrating, and that's completely normal. If you or your parent needs help setting up video calls, troubleshooting connection issues, or learning any other tech skill, SafeLineCare is here to help. Our patient, jargon-free support is designed specifically for seniors who want to stay connected without the stress.