Why Email & Video Calls Matter for Retirees
✅ Reduces loneliness – Regular contact with family boosts emotional well-being.
✅ Keeps you updated – Share photos, life updates, and important events instantly.
✅ Saves time & money – No need for long-distance calls or travel for every conversation.
Now, let’s get started!
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Part 1: How to Use Email to Stay in Touch
- Gmail (Google) – www.gmail.com
- Outlook (Microsoft) – www.outlook.com
- Yahoo Mail – www.mail.yahoo.com
- Go to the website (e.g., Gmail).
- Click “Create account” or “Sign up.”
- Fill in your name, desired email address, and password.
- Follow the prompts to complete setup.
- Click “Compose” or “New Email.”
- In the “To” field, type the recipient’s email address.
- Add a subject line (e.g., “Checking in!”).
- Write your message in the main box.
- Click “Send.”
- Inbox – Where new emails arrive.
- Sent – Stores emails you’ve sent.
- Spam – Holds unwanted emails (check occasionally for false positives).
Part 2: How to Make Video Calls
- Zoom – Great for group calls.
- FaceTime – For Apple users (iPhone/iPad/Mac).
- Google Meet – Easy for Gmail users.
- Facebook Messenger – If your family already uses Facebook.
- Download Zoom from www.zoom.us or your device’s app store.
- Create a free account (or join as a guest).
- Click “New Meeting” to start a call.
- Share the meeting link with family via email or text.
- When they join, you’ll see and hear them!
- Open the FaceTime app.
- Tap the + icon and enter a family member’s phone number or Apple email.
- Tap the video icon to call.
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Bonus Tips for Better Communication
- Schedule Regular Calls – Set a weekly time (e.g., Sunday evenings) for consistency.
- Use Good Lighting – Sit facing a window or lamp so your face is visible.
- Wear Headphones – Reduces echo and improves sound quality.
- Try Group Chats – Apps like WhatsApp let you message multiple family members at once.
Final Thoughts
If you need hands-on help, consider:
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- Asking a grandchild or younger family member for a quick tutorial.
- Attending an NCRO webinar on tech basics (check our event calendar!).
- Reaching out to the NCRO IT team for guidance.
Happy emailing and video calling!
Disclaimer for NCRO Site Visits – Part 2 | How to Use Email & Video Calls to Stay in Touch with Family, a Step-by-Step Setup Guide
The information presented in this guide is provided by the NCRO Aging Information Committee for general educational purposes only. During any in-person or virtual site visits offered in connection with this topic, NCRO representatives are not acting as technology professionals or service providers. Assistance is offered as a courtesy and is not a substitute for professional technical support or individualized instruction.
Participants are encouraged to seek help from certified technicians or trusted family members when setting up email or video calling tools. NCRO assumes no responsibility for the installation, operation, or security of third-party devices, applications, or services. Use of any recommended platforms or products is at the discretion and risk of the individual.
