A CARE home in Worsbrough has found a novel way to help residents see their loved ones by using contactless technology.
Ward Green, on High Ridge, has been inviting the loved ones of its residents to speak to them through a glass wall with the help of Alexa, the wireless computer device.
Families don’t enter the home, but instead communicate with their family member from a safe distance.
Wendy Waddington, manager at the care home, said: “As you can imagine, it’s a tough time for our residents who haven’t been able to see their loved ones for weeks.
“As a care home, we’ve had a difficult time trying to combat the virus and the new restrictions put in place.
“Especially with relatives who have family with dementia, it can be difficult to know when they want to reach out to those they love.
“We wanted to find a way to combat this and abide by the social distancing guidelines.”
Care workers at the home have trialled a new scheme that allows family members to reunited from a safe distance.
“We tested this new idea for residents to see if it was possible.
“We sit the family at each side of the glass so they can see one another and then they speak through the Alexa device on either side.
“This way they can see and talk to each other but from a safe distance.
“It is perfectly safe as they don’t need to enter the building or be physically in contact with the staff or loved ones.”
Wendy believes the trial has been successful and hopes that this continues to keep families connected.
“It has really boosted morale with both residents and family who have found the lockdown incredibly difficult.
“The residents come away with a smile on their face for the rest of the day, and that’s the most important thing for us.
“It’s incredibly emotional when the families can reunite, and we hope that others can reach out in ways that are safe for others.”
