Sharing moments through videos and photos has never been easier. The development of social sites such as YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook has made staying connected easier than ever. Whilst some sites may be built especially for images, such as Instagram. YouTube is the master of video and the best thing is anyone can upload a video. You don’t have to be a professional to use YouTube.
What is YouTube?
Created in 2005, YouTube is an established company when compared to other digital start-ups such as Instagram and Snapchat. Users of the site watch and upload videos for free at any time. Content producers range from multi-million pound companies such as Disney, to someone uploading a 10-second video from their mobile.
Over one billion hours’ worth of videos are watched every day on YouTube, with the most popular video currently having 6.1 billion views alone.
The benefits
Due to the large range of content on YouTube, there is something for everyone. From the latest movie trailers to product reviews, the site is built to inform and entertain. Searching for videos is easy too. This can be done from the homepage or by using Google, selecting the video option along the top bar and searching the video you’d like to watch.
Use YouTube to watch informative videos like Seated Exercise for Older Adults or discover a wide range of ‘How to’ videos. Videos can help loved ones learn new skills easily, for example educating them on how to use their new mobile phone. This is something they can complete at their convenience in their own home, which may help to make them feel more independent and less reliant on family members.
How do I use YouTube?
YouTube can be used without an account, however, if you’d like to receive benefits such as liking a video, following a channel or uploading your own content; then creating an account is the best way to do it. Simply:
- Visit the YouTube homepage and in the top right corner click ‘Sign in’. Click ‘More options’ and ‘Create account’.
- You can then sign up by providing your email address, name and supplying a password. Read our tips on creating a strong password.
- It’s as easy as that, now you can start using all the benefits that YouTube has to offer.
Accounts to Follow
Although YouTube may predominantly be used by younger generations, there are several brilliant elderly YouTubers paving the way. Creating highly entertaining videos. Here are a few of our favourites:
- Pasta Grannies (394,165 Subscribers) – Discover Italian Grandmas making their best homemade pasta dishes. Great inspiration for the evening’s dinner.
- Peter Oakley – (63,342 Subscribers) – Although Peter sadly passed away in 2014, it’s a great example of how someone who just shares an insight into life can become a YouTube sensation.
- Grand Illusions – (971,955 Subscribers) – Watch Tim share his collection of toys spanning over 30 years. He boasts over 20,000 in his collection! It’s a great selection of videos for all of the family.
- Gramma and Ginga – (351,479 Subscribers) – This duo have become an internet sensation over recent years. Viewers fell in love with the way the sisters interact and at 104 and 99-years-old, they have an inspiring amount of energy.
Consider Careline
YouTube can help your loved one feel more independent and in touch with their surroundings when elements of their life might be changing which are out of their control.
Here at Careline, we understand how difficult making decisions for an ageing relative can be. If you feel your loved one may require more security to stay independent in their home and would like to talk through our personal alarm range, then please get in touch with our Customer Service Team on 0808 304 4510 or email info@careline.co.uk for more information.
