Virtual quizzes involving several care homes are feasible and might reduce loneliness and social isolation, NIHR

Simple low-cost video technology allowed residents in different care homes to enjoy taking part in virtual quizzes. Staff support was needed but new research found that the sessions were feasible and low-cost. This is the first study to trial connecting care homes virtually via quiz sessions. Interviews revealed that residents felt more connected with each other, and with other care homes. They re-gained a sense of self and purpose and felt less lonely. Care home staff were eager to continue with the sessions, but they outlined barriers such as lack of staff support or time. Unlike previous research into virtual socialising, this study included residents with dementia. It found that they benefited and remembered faces and conversations.
Source: Current Awareness Service for Health (CASH) - Category: Consumer Health News Source Type: news