In our previous blog post about technology and social isolation, we talked about the importance of technology during times of isolation and loneliness. One great way to leverage technology to empower us to stay connected with family, friends, and loved ones is video calling. Video calling services such as Zoom and Google Meet have risen in popularity since the COVID-19 pandemic. However, did you know that if you have a Google Nest Hub Max (included by default in all of Novalte's voice packages), you can video call your contacts without lifting a finger? This guide will go through all of the steps to take for you to be set up to start video chatting by voice.
Blog to Independence
Video Calling with your Google Nest Hub Max
Mar 2, 2021 / by Anthony Micallef
Technology and Social Isolation
Feb 24, 2021 / by Anthony Micallef
At one time or another, we have all felt varying degrees of social isolation, loneliness, and depression. With the current state of the COVID-19 pandemic, while many of us have been forced to stay at home alone, these feelings have become all-too-familiar. We are all looking forward to a COVID-free future where we can reunite with our family, friends, and loved ones. However, as we think about our struggles and brighter days ahead, it is important to remember that for people with disabilities and the elderly, this "new" normal is not at all new. Studies have shown that people with disabilities disproportionately experience feelings of loneliness and depression. This is often a result of the many barriers imposed upon them, stemming from a variety of sources, including weather, restricted access to family, friends, and social gatherings, and many other factors beyond their control.
Creating Technology for Independence
Jan 15, 2021 / by Anthony Micallef
All technology is assistive by nature, but assistive technology is profound by design. Whether you're using a smartwatch to quickly turn off your lights without having to get out of bed, or using a Google Nest to check the perfect recipe for chewy chocolate chip cookies without getting flour all over the screen, we all know how convenient technology can make our lives. But what if it's the only way to turn your lights on? What if it's not that you're too lazy to get up off the sofa, grab the remote control, and change the channel, but you actually can't switch from the evening news to the last game of the best-of-seven championship any other way?