April 8, 2020

Humans thrive when we’re able to connect with each other face to face.

Unfortunately, social interaction, even between family members not living in the same household, could mean the difference between life and death right now. Fortunately, we live in the 21st century —  technology is our friend when we need to say hello. 

Here are four ways you can stay connected with family and friends from the safety of your own home.

FaceTime

The iPhone’s FaceTime feature is probably the easiest way to see the smiling faces of your loved ones. While it isn’t the same as a good old fashioned face to face conversation, chatting for just a few minutes to catch up can mean all the difference in the world. For those with other smartphone models, apps like Tango, Google Hangouts, Zoom, and Skype all have free features. 

Gaming

The beauty of the internet is that it’s open 24/7, and it offers a smorgasbord of gaming, either through your PC or your smartphone. Card games, crosswords, word games, chess, and more are all online and ready to play whenever you are. Jackbox Games offers a tutorial for playing online games across different platforms. 

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Recording A Story

This time can be particularly hard for grandparents. Now, with tablets and other smart devices, grandparents can record themselves reading a favorite bedtime story. Then the parents can show the video to their kids as they follow along with the same book. Everyone is home and safe in their own beds. 

Snail Mail

While you can’t see anyone’s face through a letter, the postal service is a tried-and-true system for keeping in touch — and it’s simpler than any app you could use. Share recipes, photos, jokes, even gift cards. Staying connected doesn’t have to be high-tech. Care packages for loved ones in also a good way to say, “I’m still here, and I miss you.”

Read how one New Orleans couple is finding comfort inside Lambeth House, identified as the largest coronavirus cluster in Louisiana.