Using social media
Social networking websites like Facebook, Instagram and Twitter are a great way to keep in touch with family and...
Video calling is a great way to chat with others. Keeping in touch with family, friends and other loved ones makes us feel connected and helps with feelings of loneliness.
Video calling can be a nicer way of chatting with others than just a phone call, because it lets you see the person you're talking to, and them see you. You can even have a group chat with multiple people.
Not sure how to get started? Here we give you some step-by-step instructions on how to keep in touch using a video call using different devices – some of these include video demonstrations that make things clearer.
Remember: If you're using a smartphone or tablet, make sure you're connected to a wireless internet network (Wi-Fi) before doing a video call. Video calling uses a lot of data and could result in additional charges from your phone network if you're not connected to Wi-Fi.
You can download WhatsApp for free by finding the app in the Play Store if you have an Android phone, or the App store if you have an iPhone. Read our information on downloading apps for more information.
To make a video call:
Not sure how to get started on WhatsApp? Read our guide.
You can download the Facebook Messenger app for free in the Play Store if you have an Android phone, or the App store if you have an iPhone. Read our information on downloading apps for more information.
You need to have a Facebook account to make calls over Facebook Messenger. Find out more about Facebook and other social media.
Zoom is another example form of video calling software. The person who you want to speak to just needs to make sure they have an account as well. They can then send you a link to join a video chat.
Remember: Only click links from people you know and trust. It's always worth double-checking with them that they have sent you a link.
To receive calls, you can access Zoom through your internet browser on your smartphone, tablet and computer, meaning you don't have to download anything.
If you would like to set up video calls yourself, you will need to create an account and download Zoom to your computer –you can do this for free via Zoom's website. You can then create a link, which you can share with others to join your meeting.
If you're using a desktop computer that does not have a built-in camera and microphone you may have to purchase a webcam and microphone headset.
To make Zoom calls on your smartphone or tablet, you will need to create an account and download the app called ZOOM Cloud Meetings. You can download it for free in the Play Store if you have an Android phone, or the App store if you have an iPhone. Read our information on downloading apps for more information.
You can use Skype on your phone, tablet or computer to make calls. The person who you want to speak to needs to make sure they have an account as well.
To receive calls using Skype, you don't need to download any software and can simply use your computer browser.
If you would like to set up the video calls yourself, you will need to download Skype to your computer. You can do this for free via Skype's website.
You then need to sign up for a free account with them using your email address.
To add someone new as a contact, click or tap on the symbol in the Skype app that looks like a magnifying glass, and type in the name, Skype name or email of the person you want to chat with. Select them from the search results, then type a message and press send to send them a contact request.
If you're using a desktop computer that doesn't have a built-in camera and microphone, you may have to purchase a webcam and microphone headset.
To make and receive calls using Skype on your smartphone or tablet, you need to download the app. You can download the Skype app in the Play Store if you have an Android phone, or the App store if you have an iPhone. Read our information on downloading apps for more information.
To make a call:
If you and the person you want to call both have an iPhone, iPad or Mac, you can use FaceTime to video call each other.
It will already be installed on your phone or device, so you don’t have to do anything. Follow the instructions below to start a FaceTime chat.
Information on coronavirus, including updates on how you can look after yourself and loved ones, comments from Age UK, and ways you can support older people.
To make the most of video calling, it's good to feel confident with the technology. Here are some tips for when you’re getting started:
You can find more solutions here:
The majority of our local Age UKs provide computer training, making getting online simple and enjoyable.
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