Virtual reality for the elderly
New method to link communities
People in their golden years are revelling in the magic of the silver screen – as it forges vibrant, virtual communities across Lanarkshire.
The latest video conferencing technology is being used as part of an initiative at some local authority and independent sector care homes across the area with residents linking in with each other for online gettogethers, ranging from sing-alongs to group exercise.
It is paving the way for virtual clinical consultations and support between residents and services like dietetics, pharmacy, out-of-hours and community mental health teams.
Yet for most, who grew up without television, the cutting edge developments are bringing a sense of togetherness and fun into their lives – reminiscent of simpler times.
Ian Macfarlane (74), a resident of Kirkton House Care Home in Blantyre said: “I come from a generation where families would gather round in living rooms for a chat and perhaps a song before television was so accessible.
“The widespread availability of TVS has often being blamed over the years for the loss of that golden age.
“But that all seems to have come full circle – it’s the screen that’s bringing folk back together again. It’s just magnificent!”
Eight care homes across North and South Lanarkshire were linked up recently for a group sing-along and chair-based exercises, led by a fitness expert from South Lanarkshire Leisure and Culture. The live activity link was broadcast on big screens or tablets. The group session, involving 93 residents, 33 staff members and one relative, follows on from other similar live links – and has further whet the appetite of residents.
“I enjoy being in Kirkton as there is a sense of community here,” added Ian. “But being connected to each other and seeing other folk in a similar setting is great. It’s reaffirming in a way and we feel part of a wider network thanks to the screens.
“There’s some great banter developing between homes and there’s even a chap in this home who plays the mouth organ. He ‘duels’ and plays along with a resident from another home – all via the video link. It’s great to see.”
Betty Grenfell, also a resident of Kirkton explained: “Recently we’ve been singing I belong to Glasgow and Flower of Scotland along with other homes. It’s really exciting when we link up.”
The programme is led by NHS Lanarkshire’s Telehealth team in conjunction with a variety of partners including Technology Enabled Care, South and North Lanarkshire Health and Social Care Partnerships and Scottish Care.
The innovative use of technology in healthcare, known as telehealth, comes at a pivotal time. By 2032, it’s estimated that the number of people aged over 75 in Scotland is likely to have increased by almost 65 per cent.