Technology offers new opportunities at Village Green
Friday February 22, 2008 -- Camille Jensen
Village Green is hoping to join the information highway with a new computer system for residents. The computer and a desk are new installments at the home, thanks to donations from volunteers.

Life enrichment co-ordinator Karen Coulter says the computer is currently being used for video games but she is hoping to get an Internet connection to help residents stay in touch online.

Coulter feels the Internet is a great way for residents to keep in touch with their grandchildren, especially as many are away at university.

“Kids don’t write letters anymore, they send e-mails,” says Coulter.

Coulter has experience with the benefits the Internet can provide, having helped set up a similar system at Pleasant Meadow Manor in Norwood.

“It just took off like crazy,” says Coulter. “We had a lot of residents who enjoyed getting on the Internet.”

At Pleasant Meadow, Coulter offered a computer class to help introduce and teach residents computer skills and how to use the Internet.

She says the computer system is also great for helping residents improve their dexterity and hand-eye co-ordination through video games.

Linda Pierce, administrator at the Selby long-term care home says, they are also looking into other types of technology that could benefit the residents.

Recent success of other long-term care homes using the Nintendo Wii has spurred interest for Pierce, who says the interactive video game would get residents up and moving in a new and fun way.

“Its very physical,” says Pierce. “It’s moving their arms, helping with dexterity and helping with their legs.”

She says having the residents exercising with the Nintendo Wii would also compliment their physiotherapy room.

She applauds Coulter who “is very proactive when using technology to enhance quality of life for the residents.”