2024-01-02 17:19:29
Magic touch table, virtual reality headset, geek technology is gradually entering the daily lives of seniors. These fun tools have proven their beneficial effects on the physical and mental health of nursing home residents.
We call it the magic table, the Magic table in Dutch. It now equips a few nursing homes at the Vienne University Hospital before being generalized within two years, in all establishments managed by the hospital center.
That day, at the nursing home The village in Châtellerault, four residents meet around the magic table, with a caregiver. On the program, tables to comment on, virtual sheet collection and even additions to validate. One of these residents is not mistaken: “ It’s to exercise the head! », which is confirmed by the health executive.
There is both an entertaining and physical side. Physical, because we exercise the hands by touching the table, and entertaining because residents are invited to comment on the images and discuss the subject.
Marie Texier
Health setting – Ehpad Le Village in Châtellerault
In the nine months that this table has been in place, caregivers have noticed an improvement in exchanges between seniors. “ They talk more between units, following being around the touch table ».
This tool is also a way to soothe anxiety-related disorders. The most autonomous residents have access to more complex levels of play and manipulation.
The virtual headset, another way to travel and relax. • © Stéphane Bourin-France Télévisions
In Lusignan, in this other nursing home managed by Poitiers University Hospital, residents test a virtual reality headset. Annie discovers the beauty of the Greek landscapes in a big mask, then swims with dolphins, which leaves her very moved.
It’s magnificent, you feel light, you feel like you’re swimming with them. It’s touching and it’s pretty. It relaxes you and you breathe better followingwards.
Annie
Resident in nursing home
Marco Paradiso, adapted physical activity teacher, carefully observes the effects of the virtual headset.
It has been noticed that the most anxious patients are more calm. They find calm moments, without medication.
Marco Paradiso
Adapted physical activity teacher
The tool can also be used by psychologists to stimulate memory and the reminiscence of distant memories.
In another private nursing home, in Cognac, it has been several years since technological and fun tools entered the daily lives of the forty residents. From 2019, the magic table was offered, followed in 2020 by a Silverfit. The Silverfit is a static bike that works the arms and legs.
The Silverfit, a bike used in one of the private nursing homes in Cognac. • © COS-Alexandre Glasberg Foundation
Facing a screen where landscapes scroll, the resident practices an adapted sporting activity. All those who have the physical abilities to use it have become particularly fond of this tool. “ The activity is practiced under the direction and supervision of a sports guide. We have seen real progress in motor skills and especially the reduction in falls. », explains Gwenaelle Gilbert, nurse coordinator.
In many nursing homes today, residents have access to video game consoles to the point that national competitions are organized by Silver Geek. There Silver geek is a Picto-Charente idea born in 2012 with the aim of combining aging well and digital inclusion. 35,000 residents in France today play console games in their establishment.
We also offer you this report filmed during the Gamers Assembly in Poitiers, in 2022, where seniors compete in virtual bowling events.
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