Karen Jeselun, RN, CCM returns on KXXT Radio Phoenix on 01/06/2011. Radio show “Your Long Term Care Show” with Ralph Norman and Michael Anastos.

Click on the link below to play the audio clip:

Whether you are bedridden, live at a distance, or have a disability that makes it difficult to get around, staying in your home for health purposes does not necessarily mean that you are confined within the walls of your home.  Newer technology provides a platform for millions of people to make free video and voice calls. Skype is software that “enables the world’s conversations”.

If you have a home computer you are not limited to just typing a letter or emailing a parent anymore.  The reality of using your home computer as a cost effective way to make phone calls and do video conferencing has got people talking-literally talking.    A practice that started in the business world has moved into the homes of millions of people who are taking advantage of this form of communication.  For years, corporations have used videoconferencing to conduct meetings, bringing people from around the world together on one computer screen.  The same is now commonplace for people who are using their home computer to communicate with family and friends.

Because of the ease of setting this up, many people are applying it to a variety of situations.  These real time connections with families are a huge bonus.  Grandparents can place the call and read books to their grandchildren at bedtime; children are sharing the excitement of new grandchildren over video, or just sharing smiles with their loved ones far away.  How meaningful for them and for you to be able to share with each other on a regular basis. 

Beth, a daughter of our clients, recently shared how Skype helped her family stay connected.  “I cannot put into words how happy I am to have Skype as a way to communicate with my parents.  It was so sad, for all of us, when regular email and phone conversations became more difficult and then impossible.  I was at a loss for ways to stay connected with my parents despite the miles.  I am so glad our Villa Care Manager suggested Skype because I never would have thought of it myself.  The webcam was simple to install, inexpensive and very user friendly.  I can now talk to my parents and their caregivers as much as I want, from wherever I am.  It is so meaningful to have this way to communicate with my parents. It is so special to hear their voices and see their faces at the same time.”

I recently came across a blog which suggested 10 Ways Seniors Can Use Skype

1. Log in daily for a conversation about current events with a friend
2. Tell your grandchild a bedtime story
3. Play cards with family or friends who live far away
4. Play “show and tell” with a grandchild in another state- Maybe they painted a masterpiece in art class or want to show you the A’s on their report card; whatever the case may be, Skype can allow grandparents to share in these special “show and tell” moments
5. Participate in important meetings or events by having a friend take a laptop
6. Eat a dinner or have a cup of tea with a friend- Prepare your favorite dish or pour yourself tea and nestle up by the computer to catch up with a friend on the other end
7. Have a fun sing along with a friend or grandchild
8. Talk to a family member while viewing photos online together
9. Lead someone in a relaxing set of stretches at the end of a long day
10. Talk with a family member overseas who is serving our country

Connecting with loved ones has never been easier.  The ways in which people are using Skype to keep in touch with the people who matter most are seemingly endless.  Think beyond cell phones.  Think beyond emails and downloaded photos.  Using a home computer, internet application, webcam and microphone, you can connect with someone in real-time looking directly at them on your computer screen.  You will be surprised at how enjoyable and easy it is once you get started just like Beth and her family.