Digital Holiday Connection: How Seniors Can Stay in Touch Online

Holidays are a time for family and friends to gather. Seniors relish this time with families and friends during the holiday season, but sometimes, that’s impossible for seniors living in assisted living residences. Some residents at Cristwood Park in Shoreline, WA, and Crista Shores in Silverdale, WA, have health issues or other concerns that make it hard to see family in person for the holidays.

The good news is that technology can help them stay connected during the holidays.

Why Staying Connected Matters During the Holidays

The holidays hold a special place in our hearts, and that’s why at CRISTA Senior Living, we help residents embrace technology, making it easier to stay connected with loved ones, especially during the holidays. Whether it’s video calls, emails, or social media, we empower residents to share the season’s joy with family and friends, bridging the distance with ease.

A Simple Guide to Using Technology

For seniors who might not be familiar with technology, here are some easy steps to get started:

• The Right Device: Choose a device like a tablet or smartphone that’s easy to use and ensure it has a camera and internet access.
• The Basics: Practice using the device to make calls and send messages.
• Social Media Fundamentals: Create an account on social media sites like Facebook or Instagram. Connect with family and friends by sending friend requests and following them.
• Video Calls: Use apps like Zoom or Skype to chat with loved ones. Plan virtual holiday get-togethers with loved ones using these apps.

Staying Safe Online

When using technology and social media, it’s essential to stay safe. Here are some tips:

• Strong Passwords: Make strong, hard-to-guess passwords for online accounts. Consider using a password manager to help remember them.
• Privacy Settings: Adjust privacy settings on social media to control who can see your posts. Be careful about sharing personal information online.
• Avoid Scams: Don’t trust messages or money requests from strangers. Always check the identity of anyone asking for personal or financial information.

Virtual Holiday Celebrations

While being together in person is best, virtual celebrations can be fun, too. Here’s how seniors can enjoy them:

• Online Gift Exchanges: Plan virtual gift exchanges with family through video calls.
• Sharing Recipes: Share favorite holiday recipes and cooking tips using social media or email.
• Storytelling: Arrange a virtual storytelling time where friends and family share holiday stories and traditions.

Heartwarming Benefits of Staying Connected During the Holidays

We see joy and happiness in the residents at CRISTA Senior Living who stay connected to their family and loved ones during the holidays. They share stories, laughter, and love, even when they can’t be in the same place.

The holidays are all about being close to the people you care about. Technology has enabled seniors at CRISTA Senior Living near Seattle to stay connected with their loved ones, even when they can’t meet in person. With some help and support, seniors can experience the warmth and togetherness of the holidays, no matter how far away they are from their families and friends.

We would love to meet you and take you on a tour of CRISTA Senior Living. Please contact us today for a tour!