Keeping in touch through the Coronavirus

28 April 2020

Age UK has produced really helpful guidance on how you can use technology to keep in touch. For those of us who are having to shield through the Coronavirus pandemic it can be quite a daunting experience and leave us feeling very isolated and alone. There are so many things we can do online now using a phone, tablet, laptop or computer. This can help us to keep in touch with family and friends and make life whilst socially isolating a little bit easier.  

We can use technology to access services and keep in touch. Whether it is re-ordering your prescription online from your GP surgery, video calling loved ones, buying your weekly shopping online, or using social media to keep in touch and find out what is happening locally, it all can be done online. To find out more about the NHS app or download it, please click HERE.

So if you want to know how to use FaceTime to talk to your Grandchildren or read them a bedtime story, use Zoom to join in your local virtual pub quiz, or to help you work at home, or you want to take part in an online religious service, then the internet is a good place to start. To give you a simple overview of some of the options, the BBC has written an article on staying in touch with older relatives which can be found HERE. 

Age UK also provides a lot of straight-forward advice and guidance to support people using technology to keep in touch. Click HERE to go to their website, or click HERE for a simple step-by-step beginners guide to using Zoom on YouTube.

Of course there are things to consider, whilst the internet is a great way of keeping in touch and accessing services, there are things you need to think about to stay safe. The government produces simple guidance on checking your privacy settings, parental controls and guarding against fraud. The site also has lots of useful links to make sure that you and your loved ones stay safe online. To find out more click HERE. 

Isolation and loneliness is harder to deal with than ever. If you or someone you know is lonely and in need of a chat, ring Ashfield Voluntary Action on 01623 555 551 or email s.clarke@ashfield voluntaryaction.org.uk. To find out more about the project please click HERE.