By Debbie Gardner
Staying connected as we work our way though the coronavirus pandemic continues to prove challenging. Now that the colder months are here and the weather is unpredictable, catching up with family and friends during a masked and socially distanced coffee klatch in your yard or outdoor dining venue, or during a walk at a local park, can prove problematic.
Fortunately, many elders are becoming comfortable using technology as a way to stay connected during our time apart – which despite the promise of the vaccine – may need to continue for many more months. According
to research done by the website Gearhungry.com – a digital magazine focused on finding the best in tech gear across the internet – more than 55 percent of elders in Massachusetts have reported embracing technology, and report that using various online communication apps have “helped with loneliness.”
We’re closing the tech divide
In fact, in a recent survey of 3,000 Massachusetts elders 65 years of age and older, Gear Hungry found that “53 percent said their understanding of technology has significantly improved since the start of the pandemic.
“They know what tabs to click on, what virtual buttons to press, and – most importantly of all – how to unmute their microphones! And they’ve not just had to read a manual, either; 38 percent [of elders] said their kids or grandkids have spent time with them this year, explaining how everything works,” Gear Hungry reported.
Laurie Cassidy, executive director of the West Springfield Senior Center confirmed that locally, many elders have taken to technology as COVID-19 restrictions have continued to keep familiar gathering places, such as the senior center, closed. She said that many from her Center have enjoyed learning to use social media and other platforms “such as Skype,” though for those who weren’t familiar with technology before the pandemic, getting comfortable with these new ways of communicating have presented a challenge.
For those for whom the computer seems too much to learn right now, she said an old-fashioned telephone call is a technology that can still keep individuals connected to combat loneliness.
More ways to stay connected
If you are among the elders who have become comfortable with technology, and are looking to branch out and try some new ways to connect this winter, Gear Hungry has the following suggestions of apps to try:
Skype – This app allows you to make audio and video calls with up to 50 people, it also offers the option to turn on subtitles for those who are hard of hearing, and an instant translator function. It also works on laptops. Skype is a free app. www.skype.com
WhatsApp – This app only allows you to call four other people, but you can message up to 250. You also don’t need to set up an account; it works with your cell phone number. www.whatsapp.com
WeChat – This app has a bit of a convoluted setup, but works well for video calls and messaging on cell phones. www.wechat.com
Viber - This app works on many different devices and platforms, and is especially useful for people who want to make free international audio and video calls. www.viber.com
Hangouts – A Google-based app, this is easy to use if you already have a Google account. It allows you to have up to 10 people on a video call. Works on both Android and IOS enabled phones. Hangouts.google.com
Facebook Messenger – this is a standalone app, but if you already have a Facebook account you won’t need to go through the account setup process. Also, if you are connected to a person via Facebook, you won’t need their phone number to place a call. www.messsenger.com
Snapchat – Though teens and young adults are the most identifiable users of this app, there are some older adults who have found a connection to the platform. If you do snap, you can call followers on this app. www.shapchat.com
FaceTime – Although this app is typically available on Apple – or IOS – devices, it does give those users the ability to receive calls even when they aren’t in the app itself. You can also receive calls on any Mac device, not just a phone. Look for this app in your Apple – and more recently also your Android phone’s – app store.
Zoom – One of the most popular platforms for calling and connecting with others, this app allows you to chat with up to four people through the free version. Sign up and download the app for your phone, laptop or tablet. www.zoom.us
