You can set up a virtual meeting with your loved one in assisted living using Facetime, Skype, Zoom, or a number of other programs. 

Those who are not used to conducting virtual meetings may feel overwhelmed by all of the options. Try reaching out to the staff of your loved one’s assisted living community to see if they already have a plan in place for arranging virtual meetings. Many communities have tablets with pre-loaded video chat apps that residents can borrow. If this is the case, a staff member will likely help your loved one learn how to use the device.

If you must set up virtual meetings without guidance from staff, make sure both you and your loved one has access to a computer, tablet, or smartphone that can handle video. Next you’ll need to pick a platform to use. Most video conferencing apps come with a tutorial online if you need help, so you can browse tutorials until you find one that makes the most sense to you. Most programs are free to use, but you will need to create accounts with user names and passwords. 

COVID-19 Update: With social distancing and stay-at-home orders, many seniors are struggling with loneliness and isolation. We’ve developed a list of products that caregivers or seniors can purchase to help older adults stay happy, healthy and connected, whether they are aging in place at home or in an assisted living community.

Additional Coronavirus FAQs