Step-by-Step: How to Make Video Calls with Family
A Simple, Gentle & Senior-Friendly Guide
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| A simple video call helps seniors stay emotionally connected with family. |
Growing older should never mean growing distant from the people you love.
In today’s world, families often live far apart — sometimes in different cities, sometimes in different countries. Video calling has become a beautiful bridge, allowing parents and grandparents to see familiar faces, hear laughter, and feel emotionally close, even when miles away.
If technology ever made you feel confused, nervous, or “not meant for me,” this guide is written especially for you.
We’ll go slow, step by step, with patience and warmth — just like a loved one teaching you at home.
Why Video Calling Matters More Than Ever for Seniors
Video calling is not just a technology feature — it’s an emotional lifeline.
For seniors, it helps to:
- Feel connected to children and grandchildren
- Reduce loneliness and isolation
- Stay involved in family moments and celebrations
- See facial expressions, smiles, and reactions — not just hear voices
Today’s apps are simpler, safer, and designed for everyday use, even for first-time users.
What You Need Before Making Your First Video Call
Let’s prepare calmly before we begin.
1. A Device with a Camera
You can use:
- A smartphone (Android or iPhone)
- A tablet (larger screen is easier for eyes)
💡 Tablets are especially comfortable for seniors because of the bigger display.
2. Internet Connection
- Home Wi-Fi (best option)
- Mobile data (4G/5G) if Wi-Fi is not available
No internet means no video call, so this step is important.
3. A Video Calling App Installed
Most families already use one of these:
- WhatsApp (most senior-friendly worldwide)
- FaceTime (for iPhone users)
- Google Meet
- Zoom
👉 In this guide, we’ll focus on WhatsApp, as it’s the easiest and most widely used.
Step-by-Step: How to Make a Video Call Using WhatsApp
Take a deep breath — this is easier than it looks.
Step 1: Open WhatsApp
- Find the green WhatsApp icon on your phone
- Tap it once gently
- Wait a few seconds for it to open
Step 2: Open Your Family Member’s Chat
- Tap Chats at the bottom of the screen
- Tap the name or photo of the person you want to call
Step 3: Start the Video Call
- Look at the top-right corner
- Tap the video camera icon 📹
The phone will start ringing on the other side.
✨ Congratulations — you’ve just started a video call.
What You’ll See During the Video Call
Once the call connects, don’t worry about the screen — it’s friendly.
Main Screen
- You’ll see your family member
- A small window shows your own face
Important Buttons (Very Simple)
- 🎤 Microphone – mute or unmute your voice
- 📷 Camera – turn video on or off
- 🔊 Speaker – make sound louder
- ❌ Red button – end the call
If you can’t hear clearly, press the speaker icon and use the side volume buttons.
How to Answer an Incoming Video Call
When someone calls you:
- Your phone rings
- The screen lights up
- You’ll see a green button
👉 Tap the green video icon to answer.
No need to swipe fast or press hard.
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| Making a video call only requires a few simple taps. |
Making Video Calls on iPhone (FaceTime – For Apple Users)
If you and your family use iPhones:
- Open the FaceTime app
- Tap your family member’s name
- Tap Video
FaceTime is already built into iPhones and is very secure and clear.
Simple Comfort Tips for Seniors
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| Good lighting and a steady phone make video calls more comfortable. |
Small adjustments make a big difference.
Sit in Good Light
- Sit facing a window or lamp
- Avoid light coming from behind you
Keep the Phone Steady
- Place phone on a table or stand
- Avoid holding it for long calls
Use Earphones If Needed
- Helpful for hearing clearly
- Reduces background noise
Common Problems & Easy Fixes
“I Can’t Hear Them”
- Increase volume
- Tap the speaker icon
“I Can’t See Them”
- Clean camera gently
- Check camera is not covered
“Call Keeps Disconnecting”
- Move closer to Wi-Fi router
- Switch from mobile data to Wi-Fi
Is Video Calling Safe for Seniors?
Yes — when used wisely.
Safety Tips to Remember:
- Accept calls only from known people
- Never share OTPs, passwords, or bank details
- Do not click unknown links during calls
Trusted apps like WhatsApp and FaceTime use strong encryption to protect privacy.
How Family Members Can Help Seniors Learn Better
If you’re helping a parent or grandparent:
- Save important contacts on home screen
- Increase font size on phone
- Practice slowly, without pressure
- Encourage — never rush or scold
Technology becomes friendly when learning feels safe.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is video calling difficult for elderly people?
No. Once learned, most seniors find it easier than regular calls because they can see faces and expressions.
Does video calling cost money?
The apps are free. Only internet data is used.
Can seniors make video calls without typing?
Yes. Video calling works with simple taps — no typing required.
Which app is best for seniors worldwide?
WhatsApp is the most widely used and easiest for beginners.
A Gentle Final Thought
Growing older doesn’t mean disconnecting from the world.
Video calling is not about technology — it’s about seeing your child smile, watching your grandchild grow, and feeling present in family life, even from far away.
At EasyLifeBuddy, we believe technology should feel warm, simple, and human — just like family.
Disclaimer
This article is for educational purposes only. App screens may change slightly with updates. Always keep your phone and apps updated for security and smooth performance.
