Digital support transforms lives of care home residents
Elderly residents at a collection of North West care homes have been given a new lease of life by the latest technology. Virtual reality headsets, Fitbits, iPads and the Amazon Alexa are all transforming their day-to-day experience.
The digital support project is run by Redmoor Health on behalf of Good Things Foundation. Century Healthcare, which runs the care homes, jumped at the chance to be part of the project, says Andrea Killip, Operations Manager.
Andrea says: “Everything we do is about improving the wellbeing of our residents and enhancing their lives. A lot of them already have mobile phones so we wanted to see how we could open up technology to them.”
Residents have been taking part in a wide range of new activities; from a virtual spacewalk thanks to a virtual reality headset, to calling relatives on the other side of the world via Skype. They can also play games and listen to music through Alexa. Andrea explained that some residents find it uncomfortable to have their blood pressure taken but the Fitbit can monitor this when worn as a watch.
“We’ve got a very mixed range of residents, some with dementia, some with mobility issues, and we also have some end-of-life patients. If they want to go on a rollercoaster or walk on the beach one last time the VR headsets can recreate that. Technology is improving their overall quality of life.”
Colin Nicholls, 84, a resident at Priory Court nursing home in Lytham, tried the new technology. He says: “When it comes to technology I’m willing to give anything a go. Every experience is good. As you get older it’s important to try new things.”
Not all residents understand the technology so staff make sure it’s not invasive or daunting. One resident is a big fan of motorsport races and he uses an iPad to look at videos on YouTube.
Sam Pollitt, a senior nurse at Priory Court, says: “The Alexa has made a dramatic difference. Residents who lacked motivation will suddenly ask for a ‘bit of Elvis’ when they’re having their dinner. It’s so lovely to see. We encourage them to interact with Alexa and ask questions. They’ll ask about the weather or what time it is. I asked one resident what she wanted for dinner and she told me she would have to ask Alexa!
Gillibrand Hall in Chorley has introduced sessions called ‘Techie Wednesdays’ to showcase its latest technology including the VR headsets,
Activity Coordinator Nicola Martin says: “A 94-year-old resident mentioned that it was the 75th anniversary of the Holocaust, so we downloaded a virtual tour of Anne Frank’s house. It was really thought-provoking.”
It’s been an exciting learning curve for the staff too. As well as providing the technology, Redmoor Health also run digital workshops for staff. As a result, they’ve started a Facebook page for all the homes, where residents’ families can receive updates.
Marc Schmid is the founder of Redmoor Health and said initial feedback had been positive. He says: “The 12 month project started in December and as we continue we’re looking to improve the health and wellbeing of residents, reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness and help people get connected.”
“Century Healthcare has been really receptive as we support them on their digital journey. Each home is trying out new things tailored to their audience - and we’re really impressed by their motivation and commitment to using the technology.” Staff at the 8 care homes say the digital support and skills have completely transformed the lives of their residents.
