The Magic of the Digital Age

 I can’t believe that this is my first Blog ever - as a person who is relatively computer savvy and up to date with technology I have never even considered writing one.  This year more than ever has proved just how lucky we are to be living in the age of “digital magic”, yes I used the word magic because I work in a Care Home for the Elderly and they are truly blown away when I say here’s your daughter on Skype or FaceTime and they are amazed that not only can they speak to them but they can see them too.

Due to Covid-19 my residents have obviously not been able to go out with families for coffees, meals or visit them in their homes so the use of digital technology has eased the loneliness somewhat and educated them in the use of various platforms.

We fund raised over 2019 and luckily raised £6000 to purchase a 50 inch interactive table - this enables us to load apps and play games, Skype, FaceTime, link up with other homes, show slide shows - actually the uses of it are endless.  This table is mobile and can be taken to a residents room and is fully adjustable in height and can be positioned over the bed for someone who is on bed rest, this is invaluable as they are kept involved and can communicate with their loved ones.

I can also plug in data sticks and show church services, exercise classes, concerts, movies, etc.  This year I have tried to bring the outdoors inside through taking pictures of local plants, wildlife and the countryside, I have collected stones, sea shells, feathers, moss, leaves and with the wonders of a couple of apps - iNaturalist and Seek - I have been able to show my residents the pictures and these apps identify what they are.  It’s been a brilliant interactive activity which has shown the changing of the seasons and allowed my residents to take part without being exposed to Covid-19 from the safety of their home.  I would not have been able to do this even a couple of years ago.

We rely on modern technology so much nowadays but it is not always a bad thing, iPads, PC’s, mobile phones and other tablets have kept us all connected and has learned us lots of new skills.  On reflection that is something to take from 2020 - who would have thought I would have been hosting Zoom meetings, taking part in Microsoft Teams meetings and Near Me NHS appointments and actually doing my own Blog.