Tech Tips That Keep You Connected Over the Holidays

The holidays are a time for family, friends and cherished traditions, but for many older adults, distance or mobility challenges can make in-person gatherings tricky.

Fortunately, technology can sprinkle magic into your holidays even when you are miles apart. But for many older adults, technology can create as many frustrations as it does joy.

Capri Communities realizes the importance of technology support and launched a new Tech Genie program in many of its locations to help older adults and their families stay connected. The program’s tech guidance helps with all sorts of technical challenges, including helping residents connect with loved ones through video calls, email and photo picture frames.

If you are an older adult or family member navigating these tools for the first time, the program’s one-one-one tech guidance will help you unwrap the joy of video calls and digital connections with confidence.

Technical Challenges

Learning new technology can seem as challenging as untangling a string of holiday lights when you didn’t grow up with smartphones, tablets and video conferencing.

Age-related challenges, such as reduced vision, dexterity limitations, slower processing speed or memory issues, can make it even harder. Concerns about scams or simply not knowing where to start can further add to your hesitation.

Capri Communities addresses these concerns through its Tech Genie service. The program helps eliminate technology obstacles through customized sessions that address tech concerns that run the gamut from how to navigate remote controls to how to use FaceTime on your smartphone or iPad.

Besides one-on-one sessions, Tech Genies offers regular workshops for small groups, addressing frequently asked questions about FaceTime, Zoom and Google Meet to help you connect with family during the holidays and throughout the coming year.

First Steps

To have a problem-free video call, it helps to do these five things beforehand.

1. Check Your Internet Connection—A strong Wi-Fi signal or cellphone connection helps prevent dropped calls or poor video quality.
2. Test Your Speakers—Play a short video or sound file to make sure you can hear audio clearly.
3. Check Your Camera—Open your camera app or video platform to see if the camera is working and properly positioned.
4. Update Software—Make sure your apps and operating system are up to date for the best experience.
5. Get Help— If something isn’t working, call on a Tech Genie for guidance so you can join the festivities without frustration.

Making Video Connections

Video calls can cross the miles when families are far apart. Here’s a simple guide to getting started on the most popular platforms.

FaceTime (iPhone or iPad)

1. Open the FaceTime app.
2. Tap the + icon to start a new call.
3. Type the name, phone number or email of the person you want to call.
4. Tap the video camera icon to start a video call.
5. For group calls, add multiple contacts before starting the call.

Zoom (PC, tablet or phone)

1. Open the Zoom app or go to zoom.us in your browser.
2. Click Join a Meeting or use the meeting link from your host.
3. Enter the Meeting ID if prompted.
4. Choose whether to join with video and audio or just audio.
5. Click Join and adjust your speaker or camera if needed.

Google Meet (PC, tablet or phone)

1. Go to meet.google.com or open the Google Meet app.
2. Click Join a Meeting or use the link from your host.
3. Sign in with your Google account if required.
4. Check that your camera and microphone are working.
5. Click Join Now to enter the meeting.

It’s helpful to have a loved one who is experienced with Zoom or Google Meet set up the call and send a link to all participants. If no one has that experience, a Tech Genie expert is available to help.

Get Creative

Now that you’ve decided on a digital celebration, get creative. Video calls can be festive and entertaining! Here are a few ideas that can make your celebrations sparkle:

• Virtual Holiday Parties: Deck the halls, plan fun games or trivia, and host a Zoom or Google Meet gathering.
• Cook Together: Share recipes, prepare dishes side by side and show off your culinary creations on video.
• Movie Nights: Watch a favorite holiday flick while chatting across the screen. Popcorn, cozy blankets and cheerful chatter make it feel like everyone is in the same room.
• Small Gestures: Short video messages, texts or snapshots of your decorated home can brighten a loved one’s day and make them feel included in the celebration.

Staying connected doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re an active senior exploring new apps for the first time, or a family member hoping to include a loved one from afar, technology can make the holidays come alive.