Senior Care News

Beginner’s Guide to Using FaceTime, Zoom, or Alexa to Stay Connected with Family and Friends

Discover how AmanaCare’s Care360 Method uses tech like FaceTime, Zoom, and Alexa to keep seniors connected, independent, and thriving at home.
Guide to Using FaceTime, Zoom, or Alexa
Guide to Using FaceTime, Zoom, or Alexa

Staying connected is more important than ever—especially for older adults who live at home and may not see friends or family regularly. Technology like FaceTime, Zoom, and Alexa can help bridge that gap, offering comfort, communication, and a sense of community with just a few taps or voice commands.

At AmanaCare, this is more than just convenience—it’s part of our Care360 Method, which focuses on supporting the whole person, including social, mental, spiritual, and physical well-being. Helping clients use tools like these can spark joy and prevent loneliness, while also promoting independence at home.

 

FaceTime: Simple, One-Tap Video Calls

Best for: iPhone, iPad, or Mac users

FaceTime is built into Apple devices and makes video chatting easy.

To use FaceTime:

  1. Open the FaceTime app.
  2. Tap the “+” icon and enter a contact name or phone number.
  3. Hit the green video button to call.

 

Tip for Caregivers: Add favorite contacts to the “Favorites” list for one-tap calls. You can even use Siri: “Hey Siri, FaceTime my daughter.”

 

Zoom: Group Calls & Virtual Events

Best for: Group chats, birthdays, or church services

Zoom is great for seeing multiple faces at once. It works on tablets, laptops, and smartphones.

To join a Zoom meeting:

  1. Open the Zoom app or go to zoom.us/join.
  2. Enter the Meeting ID (shared via email or text).
  3. Click “Join” and enable video/audio when prompted.

 

Tip for Clients: Use the same device each time for consistency. Ask family to send meeting links by text or write instructions in large print. Caregivers can join for the first time to help clients learn the steps.

 

Alexa: Voice Assistant & Connection Tool

Best for: Hands-free help, reminders, and staying in touch

Amazon’s Alexa devices (like Echo or Echo Show) can help seniors call loved ones, hear Bible verses, play music, or get news updates—just by using their voice.

Try saying:

  • “Alexa, call Mark.”
  • “Alexa, remind me to take my medication at 8 a.m.”
  • “Alexa, play worship music.”
  • “Alexa, what’s the weather in Lincoln, Nebraska?”

 

Tip: The Echo Show has a screen for video calls—perfect for clients with limited mobility.

 

How This Supports Care360

Technology can play a vital role in all four parts of our Care360 Method:

Community & Family Involvement

Staying in touch helps prevent isolation and supports emotional well-being. Our caregivers assist with letter writing, phone calls, and managing tech tools like Alexa, FaceTime, or Zoom to keep clients connected.

Active Body & Mind

Using tech to play games, watch educational videos, or attend virtual classes keeps the brain stimulated—essential for staying independent at home.

Religious & Spiritual Engagement

Clients can join online church services, listen to devotionals on Alexa, or watch streamed Bible studies. Our caregivers help access these platforms or provide transportation to in-person events.

Safety First

Using technology safely is also part of home safety. We help ensure devices are charged, cords are managed, and the environment is safe and user-friendly.

 

Need More Hands-On Help?

Our caregivers are trained to assist with personal care, companionship, and the tech that keeps you connected. Learn more about our services on our Personal Care Services page.

We’re Here to Help

Whether it’s setting up a Zoom call with grandchildren or asking Alexa to play a favorite hymn, AmanaCare caregivers are here to help clients thrive at home—mind, body, and spirit.

Need help getting started with any of these tools? Just ask your caregiver or local Care Coordinator. We’ll make sure staying connected is as simple—and joyful—as possible.

AmanaCare Staff

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