In our second ToC meeting on 6 April 2022 we started looking at the WhatsApp app for secure communications within our village as a whole and for each of the many activities that are organised on a weekly basis.

WhatsApp is available on all mobile phones, your mobile number is your user name, and laptops and tablets can use WhatsApp Web to access the features of the app by linking to your phone.

Wikipedia

WhatsApp offers several benefits for older users on a mobile phone, including

• a simple and intuitive interface,
• privacy and security,
• easy communication with family and friends,
• cost-effective international communication,
• sharing of photos and documents,
• voice and video messaging,
• availability on multiple platforms.

Go to the main WhatsApp home page for features and downloads, or just search in your phone’s app store.

The power in WhatsApp comes from groups. When you become a member of a group your individual message goes into the group log and can be read by all group members. In turn they can reply and send their own messages. This way messages and photos are easily shared.

In our retirement village we have a community information group which all residents can join, then individual groups for other activities like ToC, aerobics, mahjong, cycling, and walking to name a few. As well person-to-person WhatsApp messages are beccoming popular.

Of course several residents discovered their families use WhatsApp and they can now join in with instant family discussions.