Alt text: "Missoula senior video calling grandchildren on iPad"
Quick Answer: iPhone or iPad? Use FaceTime — it's already on your device and takes one tap. Any other phone or computer? Use Zoom. Both are free. This guide shows you exactly what to tap.
Seeing your grandkids' faces on a screen is one of the best things your phone or tablet can do. Missoula seniors use FaceTime, Zoom, and Google Meet every day to stay close with family across Montana and beyond — and it's simpler than you think.
Which App Should You Use?
| App | Use It If… | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| FaceTime | You and your grandkids both have iPhones or iPads | Free |
| Zoom | Your family uses a mix of phones, tablets, or computers | Free |
| Google Meet | You have a Gmail address and your family sends you a link | Free |
Simplest move: text your grandchild and ask "what app do you use to video call?" Then learn that one. Done.
📞 Not sure where to start? Good Neighbor Tech offers free phone consultations for Missoula seniors — call before you download anything and we'll point you in the right direction. Get free advice.
How to Use FaceTime (iPhone & iPad)
- Open the green FaceTime app.
- Tap New FaceTime in the top right corner.
- Type your grandchild's name or phone number.
- Tap the video camera icon — not the phone icon.
- Wait for them to answer. Their face appears on your screen.
- To hang up: tap the red X button.
💡 If it says "FaceTime unavailable," your grandchild probably has an Android phone. Use Zoom instead — it works across all devices for Missoula families with mixed phones.
How to Use Zoom
Easiest way: ask your grandchild to text you a Zoom link. Tap it. You're in the call — no account needed. This is how most Missoula families do their first video call.
To start the call yourself:
- Search "Zoom" in the App Store (iPhone) or Play Store (Android) and download it.
- Sign up with your email address.
- Tap New Meeting, then Invite, and send your grandchild a link by text.
- When they tap it, they join automatically.
- To hang up: tap the red Leave button.
Alt text: "Zoom new meeting button on tablet for Missoula senior"
🏠 Want hands-on help in Missoula? Good Neighbor Tech makes house calls across Missoula — Rattlesnake, Southgate, downtown, Orchard Homes, and surrounding areas. We'll set up the app on your device and do the first call together. Schedule a visit.
How to Use Google Meet
If your grandchild sends you a Google Meet link, just tap it. It works right in your phone's browser — no download needed. Tap "Allow" when it asks for your camera and microphone. You're in. Many Missoula seniors with Gmail accounts find this the least fussy option.
When Something Goes Wrong
- They can't hear you: Look for a microphone icon with a red line through it — tap it to unmute.
- They can't see you: Look for a camera icon with a red line — tap it to turn your camera on.
- Call keeps freezing: Move closer to your Wi-Fi router. Many Missoula homes — especially in the Rattlesnake, Orchard Homes, and Southside neighborhoods — have thick walls that weaken the signal. See our Wi-Fi troubleshooting guide for Missoula homes.
- Accidentally hung up: Just call back. It happens to everyone.
Common Questions from Missoula Seniors
Does video calling cost money?
No. FaceTime, Zoom, and Google Meet are all free. They use your home Wi-Fi — not your phone plan minutes.
Do I need a special camera?
No. Your phone or tablet already has one built in — the camera that faces you when you hold it up.
Can I call more than one grandchild at once?
Yes. All three apps support group calls. Ask your grandkids to set up the first group call and you'll know exactly how to join every time after that.
My grandchild has an Android and I have an iPhone — what do we use?
Use Zoom or Google Meet. Both work on any phone, any brand. Most Missoula families in this situation use Zoom.
What if I accidentally tap something and get lost?
Look for a back arrow in the top left, or press your Home button. You can't break anything by tapping the wrong thing — worst case, close the app and start over. Also worth reading: our new device setup guide for Missoula seniors covers the basics of navigating your phone with confidence.
Can someone help me set this up in person in Missoula?
Yes — Good Neighbor Tech comes to your home in Missoula, sets up the app on your device, and walks you through the first call. No rush, no judgment. Learn more about in-home tech help for Missoula seniors.
Alt text: "Missoula senior smiling during video call with grandchildren on tablet"
You've Got This, Missoula
Tap a button. See their faces. That's all this is. Once you've done it once, you'll wonder why you waited.
Once you're comfortable video calling, our scam prevention guide for Missoula seniors is worth a quick read — and our password organization guide for Missoula households helps keep your accounts secure. Need a printable reminder card for your first few calls? Ask us about our Video Calling Quick Reference Card — free with any in-home visit.
Need Help Setting This Up in Missoula?
Good Neighbor Tech provides patient, in-home tech support for older adults across Missoula and western Montana. We'll get you set up and make your first call together.
Schedule a Visit