Video conferencing offers a great way to keep in touch while keeping a prudent distance. It can feel much more personal than a phone call and – with the right platform – it can almost feel like the participants of a video call are right in the same room.
Easy-to-use platforms.
Zoom ( https://zoom.us/ ) is the first video conferencing platform that many may have already heard. With a smartphone, tablet, or computer, anyone can easily download the Zoom app and get started. To initiate the meeting, one participant must select “new meeting.” This participant is then given a numerical code to share that meeting with the patient who would like to join.
Zoom allows up to 100 participants, so the whole family can join in the fun.
Skype ( https://www.skype.com/en/features/ ) is another downloadable video chat application that is available for smartphones, tablets, and computers. Anyone can simply sign up with an email address to create an account. It then allows that person to add all their family and friends to their contacts by username or phone number. From there, they can simply select a user’s name to video call them. Skype recently upgraded to allow up to 50 users at one time.
It has the capacity to turn on live subtitles for those hard of hearing.
FaceTime ( https://facetime.apple.com/join ) is an app exclusively for Apple users. Group FaceTime allows for up to 32 people to video chat on the same call. It’s simple to video call family and friends directly from one’s phone since their contacts are already programmed into their device.
Google Hangouts ( https://mail.google.com/chat/u/0/#chat/home ) is another great video conferencing option for those who don’t own an Apple device. It is the available across multiple platforms and devices; and it allows 25 people to join a video call, but up to 150 participants can join through audio or chat.
Portal (https://p-portal.net/category/vijesti?gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjw0_WyBhDMARIsAL1Vz8tK6AZJBmJbpg-nNR1b_ecCaEMk7SofCN55u1q2_Icbar1d1qhkJ24aAly8EALw_wcB ) The device is small enough to carry but has a wide enough screen so a person can properly see who they’re calling. It even offers a version that connects to television sets. The Smart Camera feature expands and zooms to follow the action and ensure everyone stays in frame.
In uneasy times, connecting with loved ones is crucial. With these dynamic video conferencing options, families can be prepared to get through it together.
Adapted from Crossroads Hospice and Palliative Care. The best video conferencing platforms for seniors. Internet. Available https://www.crossroadshospice.com/hospice-palliative-care-blog/2020/april/23/the-best-video-conferencing-platforms-for-seniors Accessed on May 18, 2024.