Phone vs Video Calls for Elderly Parents: Which Is Better?
With video calling now widely available, many families default to FaceTime or Zoom for connecting with elderly parents. But is video always better? The answer depends on your parent's situation, preferences, and what you're trying to accomplish.
The Case for Phone Calls
Advantages of Phone Calls
Easier for Seniors
No technology setup requiredWorks with familiar devicesNo need to worry about appearanceCan happen anywhere (no camera positioning)Lower Barrier to Frequency
Quick calls are easier to fit inNo need for both parties to be "camera ready"Can call while doing other thingsLess formal, more naturalBetter for Certain Seniors
Those with vision problemsThose anxious about video technologyThose who are hard of hearing (phone may work better)Those who feel self-conscious about appearanceAI Wellness Calls
FamilyPulse uses phone calls for daily check-insNo app or video setup neededWorks with any phone including landlinesFeels natural and non-intrusiveLimitations of Phone Calls
Cannot see their physical conditionMiss non-verbal cuesCannot see their living environmentLess engaging than face-to-faceThe Case for Video Calls
Advantages of Video Calls
Visual Connection
See their facial expressions and body languageObserve their physical conditionNotice changes in appearanceView their living environmentMore Engaging
Face-to-face connection feels closerCan show things to each otherGrandchildren interactions are richerCan do activities togetherInformation Gathering
See if they look healthyNotice if the house looks tidyObserve their energy and alertnessPick up on non-verbal cuesLimitations of Video Calls
Technology Challenges
Requires device setupCan be confusing for some seniorsInternet issues can frustrateCamera and audio problemsCan Feel Burdensome
Need to look presentableRequires dedicated timeMust be at the deviceCan feel performativeAccessibility Issues
Vision problems make video less usefulSome seniors cannot operate devicesMay require someone to set up callsDevice costs and maintenanceWhen to Choose Phone Calls
Daily or frequent check-ins
Phone calls work best for quick, frequent touches:
Morning "how are you" callsBrief evening check-insCalls during busy daysWhen either party is on the goFor tech-challenged seniors
If your parent struggles with video:
Landline-only householdsAnxiety about video technologyVision impairmentCognitive challenges with devicesAI wellness monitoring
Services like FamilyPulse use phone calls because:
Works with any phoneNo setup required for seniorsLess intrusive than videoCan happen consistently every dayWhen to Choose Video Calls
Weekly or scheduled family time
Video is great for dedicated connection time:
Sunday family callsBirthday celebrationsHoliday gatheringsSpecial occasionsWhen you need to see them
Video is important when:
You're concerned about their healthYou want to see the home environmentGrandchildren want to interactYou're doing an activity togetherFor sharing experiences
Video enables:
Showing them somethingReading togetherVirtual toursParticipating in eventsThe Best of Both Worlds
Recommended Approach
Daily: AI wellness calls (FamilyPulse)
Consistent daily monitoringNo tech burden on seniorDetects mood and health changesAlerts family to concernsWeekly: Video call
Dedicated face-to-face timeSee how they're doingMore engaging conversationFamily participationAs needed: Quick phone calls
Between video callsWhen something comes upBrief check-insFlexibilitySample Schedule
| Day | Connection Type |
| Daily | FamilyPulse AI wellness call |
| Wednesday | Quick phone call from family |
| Sunday | Family video call |
| As needed | Additional calls |
Tips for Better Calls
Phone Call Tips
Call at consistent timesHave topics preparedAsk open-ended questionsListen activelyKeep some calls briefVideo Call Tips
Ensure good lightingPosition camera at eye levelSpeak clearly and face cameraBe patient with technical issuesHave a backup plan (switch to phone)Helping Seniors with Video Calls
If you want to include video:
Setup for success
Choose the simplest platformWrite down step-by-step instructionsSet up speed dial or favoritesPractice together multiple timesMake it easier
Tablets may be easier than phonesConsider dedicated video calling devicesSet up automatic answering if possibleHave tech-savvy friend nearbyConclusion
Phone calls and video calls each have their place in staying connected with elderly parents. The best approach typically combines:
AI phone calls for daily wellness monitoringVideo calls for meaningful weekly connectionAdditional phone calls as neededThe most important thing is consistent, meaningful contact, regardless of the medium. Choose what works best for your parent's abilities and preferences, and don't let technology barriers reduce your connection.
