There is an alternative option that, once set up, requires minimal help from staff and enables residents and their loved ones to connect whenever they want, using voice enabled assistive technology. Perhaps the best known of these is “Alexa”.
Using this technology, relatives and friends can “drop in” on residents virtually and create treasured moments. Voice calls can be less intrusive than video, and less confusing for residents who may find video technology too much, but understand the concept of a phone call. Plus it uses less bandwidth on the wifi.
We know that no technology can replace the experience of face-to-face visits. However, we have seen that this voice enabled assistive technology can work “incredibly well” as a way to communicate and connect with care home residents until family and friends are able to visit them in person as frequently as they wish. ”
