Maintaining contact with a loved one in an assisted living or memory care facility is crucial, and modern technology offers various avenues to ensure consistent and meaningful communication. Facilities that understand the importance of this connectivity often provide resources to help bridge the distance between families and residents.
Some of the more common applications for voice and video calls, beyond the basic telephone, include: Skype, WhatsApp, Google Hangouts, and FaceTime (Apple only).
Communication Pods: The concept of a ‘communication pod’ in a facility is an excellent service, providing residents with access to phones and computers. This dedicated space allows for uninterrupted voice and video calls, which are essential for families who cannot visit in person frequently.
Popular Communication Applications: There are several user-friendly applications that have become staples for virtual communication:
Skype: A widely used platform for video and voice calls, available on multiple devices.
WhatsApp: Offers text, voice, and video calling options, and is particularly popular for international communication due to its encryption and ease of use.
Google Hangouts: A versatile tool for messaging, voice, and video calls, integrated with Google’s suite of services.
FaceTime: An Apple-exclusive application that provides high-quality video calls for users with Apple devices.
Visits and Travel Considerations: While in-person visits are the most intimate form of communication, work, family obligations, and the distance to facilities, especially those abroad, like in Mexico, can make regular visits challenging. In selecting a facility, consider how they might assist with local travel logistics, easing the burden of planning for visits.
Video Calls as a Lifeline: When in-person visits aren’t feasible, video calls become a lifeline, allowing for face-to-face interaction. Ensuring your loved one’s facility supports and facilitates this technology is paramount.
Local Advocacy: Having a local advocate or friend periodically check on your loved one can offer peace of mind. This person can provide updates and perhaps even assist with setting up and facilitating virtual calls.
Relocating to Mexico: For caregivers considering relocation, Mexico presents an attractive option for its beauty and cost-effectiveness. Moving closer to the care facility not only makes visits easier but also allows caregivers to enjoy a favorable climate and lifestyle during their retirement years.
In summary, when geography imposes limitations, technology and a supportive care facility can play significant roles in keeping the channels of communication open. Whether it’s through a dedicated ‘communication pod’, regular video calls, or the support of local friends, it’s essential to remain actively involved in your loved one’s life, ensuring they feel cared for and connected, no matter the distance.
Download the Expatriate Guide for Senior Living in Mexico – For your convenience, the entire 50-page guide is available for download as a PDF. Additionally, give us a call at +1.888.406.7990 or email us at information.cielitolindo@gmail.com. We would love to hear from you.