• Save

When you have aging parents, it can be difficult to know how to keep them engaged and connected. They may not have the patience for video chatting or social media, and staying in touch with them can be challenging when they live far away. Luckily, there are lots of ways to stay connected with your aging parents that don’t feel overwhelming or expensive. Here I’ve teamed up with Famileo – the newspaper that brings joy to grandparents – to share 7 practical tips on how to keep in touch with your aging parents. Plus you can find out what we thought about the Famileo personalised newspaper for grandparents below.

Plan a check-in day once a month

When you have aging parents, you may worry that you’re not keeping up with the person who used to be the same age as you. While it’s important to be intentional about connecting with your parents, you don’t have to do it all in one session. Try to check in with your parents regularly. Even if it’s once a month, keep that momentum going to stay connected. Every time you check in with them, you’re showing them that you care, you’re reminding them that they’re not alone, and you’re setting a foundation for future conversations.

Pick a weekly chat time

With the busyness of modern life, it can be hard to find the time to keep the communication lines open which is why it’s important to schedule a weekly phone call or video chat with your aging parents. If you do find the time, make it as easy as possible for both of you. Pick a time when you know your parents are likely to be in the mood to talk. Maybe it’s a quiet morning or evening, or when both of you are free on the weekends.

Set up video chats regularly

With technology constantly evolving, it’s important to set up regular video chats with your aging parents. Even if you live far away and they live close by, setting up regular video chats can help you stay connected. Look for opportunities to do this, like when you visit your parents while they’re staying in the hospital, or when they come to stay with you while you’re away.

Get creative

We recently discovered and fell in love with Famileo which essentially helps you put together a monthly “gazette” for aging parents. It’s a really easy and simple way to keep your aging parents up to date with everything going on in your family.

How does it work?

First up, invite every member of the family to post messages and photos from their smartphone, tablet or PC. Using the Famileo app (available on Googe Play, the Apple app store or via the website, the whole family can independently share their messages and photos in just a few clicks. All the messages are then automatically formatted and printed out in the form of a personalised newspaper. This newspaper, or gazette, is sent by post at a frequency of your choice – this can be weekly, bi-weekly or monthly.

Set up is really easy and once you’re good to go, I usually just upload some photos from my phone along with a quick caption or message when I have a spare few seconds – because yes that’s all it takes! It’s absolutely made for this busy mum’s life and is a really quick and simple process.

Why we chose Famileo for my dad

Discovering Famileo came at an especially perfect time for us as my Dad who is coming up 75 had just been diagnosed with Stage 3 cancer, and has had a big operation from which he is currently recovering and mainly isolating at home.

Famileo was a fantastic way of putting together a Gazette full of love, supportive messages from all the family, and feel-good pictures and updates to help him stay positive and entertained during this worrying time.

But of course, this would be perfect for any aging parent who may perhaps be missing out on a regular connection with the family.

What my dad thought of his gazette

My dad absolutely loved his gazette. It did exactly what it claimed to do on the tin – bring joy to grandparents. Despite having to self-isolate during his recovery, it made him feel like he was part of the everyday moments of our life, and also gave him the opportunity to stay updated with our latest escapades.

Join an online forum for conversation and advice

If your parents aren’t comfortable chatting on social media, it might be helpful to encourage them to join an online forum. Online forums can offer a place for people to talk about issues that are important to them as well as provide advice on topics like aging, relationships, health, and finances. Some online forums are open to anyone who’s invited, while others are restricted to members. If your parents are comfortable joining an online forum, it can be a great way to stay connected.

Don’t be afraid to take risks with new technologies

Many people are hesitant to try new technologies when it comes to their aging parents. It might feel like you’re taking a risk if your parents aren’t tech-savvy, but it’s important to try new technologies. With all the advancements in tech, there’s a good chance that your parents may have an app or device they can use to join video chats.

Celebrate milestones together

A lot of times, the most meaningful moments in family relationships are the ones that are shared with others. It can be helpful to celebrate important milestones with your aging parents, like their 70th birthday, retirement, or the arrival of a grandchild. You don’t have to go overboard with these celebrations; making the most of them requires planning and attention, which can be helpful reminders for both of you.

Conclusion

Aging can be an exciting time for your parents, but it can also bring new challenges. There are a few things you can do to help keep your parents connected and engaged. Pick a weekly chat time, set up video chats regularly, join an online forum for conversation and advice, don’t be afraid to take risks with new technologies, celebrate important milestones with your aging parents, and much more. With a little planning and effort, you can help your aging parents stay connected and engaged with their lives.

Find out more about Famileo or download the app on Google Play or the Apple app store