Help to use video calling

ONE of the challenges facing older Australians during physical distancing has been the need to stay in touch with family, friends and their communities.

Video calling can profoundly reduce the feeling of isolation but, for many older Australians, it can be a challenge.

However, many seniors are going the extra mile to find out how to catch up “face to face”.

Between February and May, 17 per cent of all the learning modules completed by seniors on eSafety’s Be Connected website were about making video calls.

The easy-to-understand modules guide people through video calling apps such as Skype, FaceTime and WhatsApp. eSafety has just published new advice on its website, featuring tips and a how-to video from eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant.

“It is so vital now for seniors to be able to connect in this way – and family and friends have a key role to play in teaching them how,” Ms Inman Grant said.

The eSafety Commissioner is encouraging all Australians to support their loved ones with the technology.

Coralie Thompson, 70, said she had used video calls three times more than usual since social distancing took effect.

“It’s the closest you can get to somebody without actually being with them,” she said. “It’s about being together even when you’re apart,” Ms Thompson said.

“The biggest benefit is being able to see my granddaughter. I take her on a tour of the house and show her what’s new in my garden, what I’ve been cooking and the cat. She loves it.”