Video Calling Your Grandparents Made Easy

Calling your grandparents by video has become a simple and accessible gesture, provided you choose the right tool and prepare the call properly. This guide walks you through installing, setting up and making your first video calls with elderly relatives, even if they have never used this technology.

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According to an INSEE study published in 2024, 62% of people over 65 use the internet daily in France, and video calls are among the fastest-growing uses among seniors. Yet the first call often remains a difficult hurdle. This guide is here to help.

Which app to choose?

WhatsApp: the most universal choice

33 million monthly active users in France (Mediametrie, January 2025). Simple interface, one-tap video calling, works on all devices, group calls up to 32 people.

Limitation: requires a mobile phone number.

FaceTime: the simplest on Apple

Pre-installed on all Apple devices. Excellent video and audio quality. Can invite Android users via a web link (since iOS 15).

Limitation: primarily designed for Apple ecosystem.

Google Meet: no installation needed

Works directly in a browser. Up to 100 participants free. Automatic French subtitles available (useful for the hearing impaired). Unlimited calls for two people.

Limitation: slightly more complex interface; Google account needed to create a meeting.

Setting up WhatsApp for video calls

On Android

1. Open Play Store > search WhatsApp > Install
2. Open the app, accept terms
3. Enter the mobile number, verify with SMS code
4. Choose a name and profile photo (optional)

On iPhone

1. Open App Store > search WhatsApp > Get
2. Follow the same setup steps

Making a video call

1. Open a conversation with the person
2. Tap the camera icon in the top right
3. The video call starts immediately
4. To add more people, tap the + button

Using FaceTime

1. Open FaceTime (green icon)
2. Tap New FaceTime
3. Type the name, number or email
4. Tap the video button
5. Wait for them to answer

Inviting non-Apple users

1. In FaceTime, tap Create Link
2. Share the link by text, email or WhatsApp
3. They click the link and join from their browser

Using Google Meet

Creating a meeting

1. Go to meet.google.com
2. Log in with your Google account
3. Click New meeting > Send invitation or copy the link
4. Send the link to your grandparents by text or email

Joining (grandparent’s side)

1. They receive the link by text or email
2. Click it — the browser opens automatically
3. Tap Ask to join
4. You accept — the call begins

Tips for quality video calls with seniors

Lighting

• Face a light source (window or lamp), never sit with your back to the window
• Natural daylight is best
• In the evening, a desk lamp pointed towards your face helps

Sound

According to the Fondation pour l’audition (2023), 65% of people over 65 report hearing difficulties in some situations.

• Increase volume to maximum if needed
• Speak facing the screen, clearly and unhurried
• Choose a quiet room
• A headset with microphone dramatically improves quality
• On Google Meet, enable automatic subtitles (CC icon)

Framing

• Hold the device at eye level
• Use a stable stand rather than holding it by hand
• Keep about 50 cm distance from face to screen

Internet connection

• Prefer WiFi over 4G
• Move closer to the router if signal is weak
• Close other apps and tabs
• If connection is poor, temporarily turn off video to keep audio

Preparing the first call

1. Install the app together if possible, in person
2. Do a test call to check everything works
3. Write the steps on paper in large print
4. Stick a memo next to the device
5. Have a backup plan: if video does not work, call by regular phone and guide them step by step

Common mistakes to avoid

1. Choosing an app that’s too complex — avoid Zoom or Teams for beginners; WhatsApp or FaceTime are sufficient
2. Not testing before the real call — a failed first call discourages
3. Speaking too fast or too quietly
4. Forgetting to charge the device
5. Calling without warning — send a message first: “I’ll call you on video in 10 minutes, is that OK?”

Which device is best for senior video calls?

Device	Advantage	Limitation
Tablet (best choice)	Large 10-inch screen, comfortable	Needs WiFi, some weight
Smartphone	Always on hand	Small 6-inch screen
Laptop	Large screen, keyboard	Less intuitive for beginners

Video calling with grandparents is a simple gesture that makes a real difference. According to a French Red Cross study (2024), elderly people with regular video contact report 40% less isolation than those using only the phone.

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Editorial note

Sources consulted: INSEE 2024, Mediametrie January 2025, Wirecutter March 2025, Fondation pour l’audition 2023, French Red Cross 2024, Emmaus Connect 2024.

Limitations: App performance depends heavily on local internet quality. App interfaces evolve regularly.

Verification date: 26 March 2026

Conflicts of interest: This article contains Amazon affiliate links. Recommendations are based on ease of use for seniors.

Questions fréquentes

What is the best video calling app for seniors? ▼

Do I need a good internet connection for video calls? ▼

How can I improve sound quality during a video call? ▼

Can I make a group video call with my grandparents? ▼

My grandparent doesn't have a smartphone, can they video call? ▼