Video calling has become a common way to stay connected with friends and family.
Over the years, it has become easier than ever to connect with people using video calling services like Skype or FaceTime.
Most smartphones now come with built-in cameras and microphones, although some older phones don’t have these features. Additionally, most computers also offer video calling capabilities.
Video calling is such a convenient way to communicate with others, and has become extremely popular over the past couple years.
It is also a fantastic way to keep in touch with friends and family who have moved away – or, perhaps, you were the one that moved away – as you can speak to them face-to-face with ease.
While telephone calls are still an option, many people prefer video calls because they feel more comfortable talking to someone while seeing their facial expressions. This is especially true when speaking to children or elderly relatives.
The older generation have a tougher time using electronic devices, so it can be tough convincing them to try new things. However, it is worth noting that video calling devices can be extremely helpful tools for seniors, allowing them to connect with loved ones if they live further away than their relatives.
In this article, we will take a look at the best video calling devices for the elderly. We will discuss the different types of video calling devices available on the market today, including those specifically designed for seniors.
We will then go into detail about each device, discussing what makes it special and why it might be the right choice for your parents, grandparents, or other elderly relatives.
We hope that after reading our review, you will find yourself able to make an informed decision regarding which video calling device would work best for your family members.
Let’s get started.
Video Call Apps Available On iOS, Android, And More
While there are so many amazing devices out there, it is worth looking into what you already have at home before spending extra money on something else.
If your elderly relatives already have access to a smartphone, it may be worth checking out some of these apps first. Most of these apps are free to use, and fairly simple to operate on a phone.
Apple FaceTime
FaceTime was introduced by Apple back in 2007. It allows users to call up another user and see them face-to-screen. The app works across all iPhones, iPads, Macs, and even Apple Watches.
This means that no matter where your relative lives, they can easily join in a conversation via FaceTime. This app will already be installed on their iPhone, so there is no need to download anything else: all they need to do is click the app, and call up their friend.
It is worth noting that this app is only available for those with iPhones, or any other Apple products. This app is not available for androids.
Pros
- Free to use
- Already installed with iOS
- Can be used with almost any Apple product
Cons
- Not available to Android users
Skype
Skype is another great video calling app that is available for both iOS and Android.
It can also be downloaded onto computers and laptops, but a camera is required to use Skype on a desktop computer. Most devices have built-in cameras, though, so this shouldn’t be an issue unless you are using an older device.
Skype is mainly free to use, although there are certain features that cost a small fee. It is free to make group calls, but it can be a little tricky to get used to.
The user will need to create a ‘room’, and then send a code to all participants. Once everyone has joined the room, they can start chatting.
There are also additional premium services such as screen sharing and file transfer, which are priced accordingly. These are useful options for families who want to share photos or documents between multiple devices.
You can download Skype by clicking this link.
Pros
- Mostly free to use
- Simple to set up and use
- Additional premium services available
Cons
- Some services require extra payments
Facebook Messenger
Facebook Messenger is one of the most popular messaging apps around. It is available for iOS, Android, Windows, and macOS. It is also completely free to use.
If your relative already has a Facebook account, they will be able to video call their nearest and dearest with the simple click of a button. They just need to open the app, click on ‘video chat’, and enter the name of the person they wish to talk to.
There is also an option to create group calls, providing the person starting the call is already ‘friends’ with the rest of the group. This makes it easy to set up a meeting with several people at once.
You can create your own Facebook account by clicking this link.
Pros
- Free to use
- Easy to set up
- Allows group chats
Cons
- Facebook account needed to use
WhatsApp is another great video calling service. It is available on iOS, Android, Windows Phone, Blackberry, and more. WhatsApp is free to use, and is very similar to Facebook Messenger.
The main difference is that WhatsApp requires two phones to be connected before anyone can initiate a video call. You must first add each person’s number to your contacts list, and then choose the contact you would like to video call.
Once the call is established, the person initiating the call can press the red button on their phone, and the other person will receive a notification asking if they are ready to answer. If the other person clicks yes, they will be put through to the caller.
You can download WhatsApp by clicking this link.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Very similar to Facebook Messenger
- Requires only two phones to connect
Cons
- Video quality isn’t the greatest
Zoom
Zoom is yet another excellent video calling app. It is available for iOS, Android, Mac, PC, and Linux. Zoom is free to use, but users may need to pay a subscription fee depending on how many people they want to invite into a call.
The basic version of Zoom is completely free: while using this version, users cannot record the conversation, nor do they have access to advanced features such as screen sharing.
However, this setting is ideal for those who simply want to see what their family members look like when they aren’t in front of them.
You can download Zoom on your desktop by clicking this link.
Pros
- Fairly simple to use
- Basic version is free
- Easy to set up
Cons
- Additional costs apply for full access
The Best Video Call Devices
In an era in which most people own their own smartphones, there doesn’t seem to be much point in owning a separate video calling device. After all, smartphones these days seem to be able to do anything, from making phone calls to playing games.
That said, there are certain situations where having a dedicated video calling device might come in handy. If your elderly relatives do not own smartphones, for example, or if you’re trying to keep your conversations private, then a standalone video calling device could prove useful.
Below, we’ve listed the best video calling devices currently available. We have included both wired and wireless options, so whether you prefer to make calls over a landline or via Wi-Fi, you’ll find something suitable.
Amazon Echo Show
In recent years, Amazon has released so many useful tools for consumers. The company’s Alexa digital assistant is one of the most popular, allowing users to ask questions about weather forecasts, read news headlines, play music, control smart home appliances, and order products online.
Now, Amazon has expanded its range of services with the introduction of the Echo Show. This new addition to the line includes a 7-inch touchscreen display, along with a built-in speaker.
When it comes to video calling, the Echo Show makes a great option. With a resolution of 1080p, the Echo Show allows up to four participants to connect at once. All participants can view the same content simultaneously, and the audio quality is also very good.
As well as being easy to set up, the Echo Show is relatively inexpensive. You can buy it for around $155 from Amazon.
You can purchase your own Amazon Echo Show by clicking this link.
Pros
- Affordable price tag
- Good sound quality
- Voice operation option
Cons
- Small screen size
The GrandPad®
If you’d rather not spend too much money, but would still like to enjoy video calling, then the GrandPad may be worth considering.
The GrandPad was designed specifically for seniors. It connects to existing landlines, and offers high-quality audio and video. It supports up to eight simultaneous connections, and has a large screen that displays caller information.
It’s also extremely simple to use. Simply dial the number, press send, and you’re done. There’s no need to enter a PIN code, and the GrandPad will automatically disconnect after 30 seconds.
It costs around $399, although this price will vary depending on where you live. There is no contract required when buying the GrandPad, and it can be used with any landline.
You can purchase your own GrandPad by clicking this link.
Pros
- Large screen
- Simple to use
- High-quality audio
Cons
- Requires landline
- Expensive
Konnekt Videophone
The Konnekt Videophone is another affordable option. It features a 5-inch touch screen, along with two built-in speakers.
This device is ideal for those who want to stay connected without spending too much money. When you purchase the Konnekt Videophone, you receive a free subscription to Skype. This means that you can call other Skype users for free!
You can also download apps such as Facebook Messenger and WhatsApp through the app store.
The Konnekt videophone is priced at just $99, and the company will help you set up your device by adding your contacts for you.
You can purchase your own Konnekt videophone by clicking this link.
Pros
- Free Skype subscription
- Helpful company
- Great value for money
Cons
- Small screen
Google Nest Hub + Duo
With Google Nest Hub, you get access to all of Google’s services, including YouTube, Gmail, Maps, Calendar, and more.
However, what really sets the Hub apart is its ability to make video calls. As part of the Google Home lineup, the Hub is compatible with the Google Assistant, which provides voice recognition technology. So, if you’d like to make video calls using your smartphone, simply say “Hey Google” and start talking.
The Hub will pick up your words and translate them into speech. Once you’ve finished speaking, the Hub will transcribe your message and convert it into text. Then, you’ll be able to share your messages in real time.
The Hub is available for $229, or just under $10 per month.
You can purchase your own Google Nest Hub Max by clicking this link.
Pros
- Compatible with Google Assistant
- Transcribes spoken words
- Fairly easy to use
Cons
- Quite expensive
Facebook Portal
If your elderly relative already has a Facebook account, then they could benefit from the Facebook Portal. The Portal is an internet-connected camera that lets you see what’s going on inside your home.
To begin, you’ll need to install the Portal app on your phone or tablet. Then, you’ll have to link the Portal to your Facebook profile. After that, you can control the camera remotely using your mobile device.
Once the Portal is linked to your Facebook account, you’ll be able to see what’s happening inside your home. You can even speak directly to people inside your house by saying “Hi”.
The Portal costs around $179.
You can purchase your own Facebook Portal by clicking this link.
Pros
- Can view what’s happening inside your house
- Allows you talk to people inside your home
- Fairly easy to use
Cons
- Facebook account required
CallGenie
CallGenie is one of the most popular video calling devices for seniors. It’s easy to set up, and allows you to connect to both landlines and cell phones.
There are several reasons why CallGenie is so popular. First, it’s incredibly affordable. For only $49, you can get yourself a basic package that includes three lines and unlimited minutes.
There is no contract required when purchasing the service. However, there is a monthly fee of $6.95 per line. The CallGenie is compatible with many different types of smartphones.
So, whether you own an iPhone, Android, Windows Phone, or BlackBerry, you should be able to connect to the service.
The CallGenie comes with a 4-inch touchscreen display. There are four buttons located below the screen. These buttons allow you to answer incoming calls, end calls, mute the microphone, and change volume settings.
You can purchase your own CallGenie device by clicking this link.
Pros
- Affordable
- Easy to set up
- No contract required
Cons
- Small screen
Komp (No Isolation)
This device is ideal for those looking to keep their loved ones safe. Komp is a smart alarm system that monitors your home 24/7. If someone tries to break in, the system will alert you instantly via email, text, or push notification.
It works by monitoring movement within your home. When something moves, the system sends out alerts to your phone. This way, you won’t miss any suspicious activity.
You don’t need to worry about installing expensive equipment. Instead, you’ll just need to purchase a Wi-Fi router. Komp also works with Alexa, Siri, and Google Assistant. So, you can use these assistants to control the device.
You can get the Komp for only £39 per month, along with free installation.
You can purchase your own Komp device by clicking this link.
Pros
- Free installation
- Monitoring your home 24/7
- Compatible with Alexa, Siri, and Google Assistant
Cons
- Expensive
Buyer’s Guide
When people get older, it can become more difficult to understand and connect to technology. That’s where video calling devices come into play. They’re designed specifically to help seniors stay connected while they live on their own.
These devices make it easier to communicate with family members, friends, and neighbors. In addition, they let you see what’s going on inside your home.
In this article, we’ve reviewed some of the best video calling devices for the elderly. We’ve looked at each of them individually, as well as compared them side by side.
So, how do you know which device is best for you? Well, here’s everything you need to know if you are still wondering which video calling device is right for you.
Easy To Use
If you want to make sure that your senior relative can easily use the device, then you should look for one that is fairly simple to use. It should have easy-to-read icons and menus, and a large enough screen so that they can read it without straining their eyes.
If your loved one has trouble reading small print, then you may want to consider getting them a larger device. Additionally, some elderly people have trouble with tremors, so it may be difficult for them to hold the device steady.
If your relative struggles with these issues, then you might want to consider purchasing an assistive device such as a call button, voice recognition software, or a tablet.
Devices with voice recognition software are becoming very popular because they allow users to interact with the device using their voices.
The most important thing when choosing a video calling device is to find one that is easy to set up. You shouldn’t have to spend hours trying to figure out how to use it.
Price And Features
The price of a video calling device isn’t always indicative of its quality. However, there are certain things you should pay attention to when purchasing one.
For example, you should look for a device that offers high definition (HD) resolution. HD resolution will give you sharper images than standard definition (SD).
Additionally, you should look for features like dual cameras, motion detection, two-way audio, and built-in speakers. These features will ensure that you can hear every word spoken during a conversation.
Additionally, you should take into account any extra fees associated with the device. Some services charge monthly subscription fees, while others require annual contracts.
There are many different types of video calling devices available today. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages. The best way to choose the right one for you is to think about the needs of your loved ones.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Use Video Calling?
If you live a distance away from your parents or an elderly relative, video calling is a great way of staying in touch.
What Is The Future Of Video Calling?
As a result, we’ve witnessed the development of simple video calling devices designed to help those with limited tech knowledge and especially helpful for engaging with older relatives.
What Are The Benefits Of Video Calling?
It can feel more personal than a phone call, and seeing them in-situ has the added benefit of being able to keep a subtle check on their health and environment.
What Equipment Do You Need For Video Communication?
Video calling devices for the elderly are dedicated pieces of equipment for simple video communication.