Staying connected with loved ones is so important, especially for the elderly, whether they live independently, with support or in residential care.

Regular social interaction can make the difference between a fulfilled life, knowing that they are loved, and a slide towards loneliness and depression.

The great news is that with all the tech that’s available today, being able to connect with an our loved ones has never been easier. In this post, we’re going to look at some hi-tech and more traditional ways to keep in touch with your friends and relatives.

1. Video calls

If your loved has a smartphone, tablet or laptop (or even an old-fashioned desktop), video calling is the way to go.

Install a video calling app such as Skype, FaceTime or Zoom for them and show them how to use it. Be patient and have a few trial runs so that your relative feels confident using it.

Once they get the hang of video calling, there’ll be no stopping them! While the younger generation have grown up taking tech for granted, being able to see a loved one as they chat will feel magical for your elderly relative.

2. Social media

Social media has so many options nowadays, so there is bound to be one to suit your elderly friend or relative.

Facebook and Instagram are perfect for sharing family news and photos. You can also use WhatsApp to set up a family chat group to keep your loved one in the loop.

If they have special interests or hobbies, set them up with a Pinterest account so they can share ideas with you and others. This way, their hobby is a talking point and a way to feel connected to the outside world.

3. Regular 'dates'

Just like you might set up a romantic meet-up, organise a regular date to enjoy with your friend or relative.

It could be something as simple as meeting up for a coffee through to a full-blown evening of cocktails, taking in a show and enjoying dinner in a favourite restaurant.

Half the fun of dates organised in advance is the joy of having something to look forward to. And even planning what they are going to wear will give your loved one a spring in their step!

And if they’re not as mobile as they used to be, you can plan trips to see them. Remind them in a phone call before you visit, and plan some activities you can do together. This could be anything from playing cards to joining them in their hobbies. 

To make planning easier, it’s always beneficial to coordinate with the primary caregiver on the dates and timing of your visit.

4. A good old-fashioned letter

When was the last time you received a handwritten letter in the post?

Even if it was years ago, you probably remember how it made you feel. Knowing that the sender was focusing on you alone while they were writing it makes any handwritten letter a pleasure to receive.

You may also find with older friends and relatives that it’s their preferred way to stay in touch, and they’ll appreciate the thought you’ve put into communicating this way.

5. Gift a photo

You’ve heard of the saying ‘a picture speaks a thousand words’. So why not send your relative a photo of their grandchildren, for example, to make them feel closer and more connected?

This is so important if you live far away and don’t get to visit as often as you’d both like.

6. A personal alarm

One of the greatest fears of older people living on their own is needing help and being unable to communicate. This is where personal alarms come in, offering a lifeline to the elderly.

Know that the service they offer may vary widely. For example, many personal alarms are automated, dialling out to a pre-selected number and relying on the person on the other end to pick up the phone.

Consider a Tunstall alarm for its unique benefits. When the user calls for help, they will be connected to our 24/7 call centre, guaranteeing that they will be able to speak to a friendly voice. The Care Consultant will assess the situation and then call your emergency contacts or emergency services if required, staying on the line until help arrives.

Check out our complete range of technologies and applications dedicated to providing seniors with emergency contacts if they need assistance.

The gift of keeping communication open

Finding different ways to stay in touch with elderly loved ones and keeping communication open is essential to their wellbeing.

To know more about how we keep the lines of communication open for your loved one with our range of personal alarms, reach out to our team. Knowing that help is available at the touch of a button is a priceless gift to give someone you cherish.