Latest tech helping to connect

Strath care home residents are among those showing that age is no barrier when it comes to getting to grips with the latest technology.

And, as part of a trial being run in seven premises across the Perthshirebased Balhousie Care group, the older generation are using giant touchscreen tables to access interactive activities, video calling, apps and virtual travel tours.

The state- of- the- art gadgets are wheelchair- accessible, heightadjustable and can move from room to room.

Residents have been using them to play games, complete crosswords and word searches, practice musical instruments and call their loved ones.

Balhousie Care has 26 facilities across Scotland – including several in the Strath and elsewhere in Perth and Kinross.

The touchscreen tables, made by Agilico, enable staff to capture data on residents’ activity.

They also complement two initiatives recently launched across the group – one of which is a video-based music and movement programme and research project being conducted in Balhousie homes in partnership with academics at University of Stirling.

Sheilah Harvey, head of operations at Balhousie Care Group, said the aim was to ensure residents have as much independence as possible.

She explained: “Person- centred care has always been a priority for us at Balhousie.

“The touchscreen tables are so adaptable and easy to use that they tick many boxes for us.

“They can be moved around easily, including into residents’ bedrooms if they are immobile or just want some time on their own.”

Based on the results of the trial, a company spokesperson said it is hoped to roll the technology out to the rest of its facilities across six council regions of Scotland.