Virtual Reality Helps Scarbrough Court Residents Revisit Their Favourite Places

Scarbrough Court Cramlington, Northumberland, is using virtual technology to help residents recall some of their most cherished memories.

RMBI care home Scarbrough Court teamed up with local company Reminiscience on Friday 5th September.  Residents were invited to use special goggles alongside software, which allows the user to enjoy a virtual experience.

“Using virtual reality to facilitate reminiscence sessions allows residents to become fully immersed in different locations, helping to both mentally stimulate and increase levels of social interaction by provoking conversations,” says co-founder of Reminiscience, Ashley Stokeld.

Reminiscience provides customised content that is specific to the resident and care home, ensuring a personal experience for each user. It also enables residents who are less mobile to take part in meaningful and stimulating activities.

“Residents and staff at the Home were fascinated by the new technology and the experience has been very beneficial for our residents’ wellbeing,” says Samantha Buxton, Home Manager at Scarbrough Court.

“One of our residents, Dora Thornton, has fond memories of working at the Spanish City Amusement Park at Whitley Bay, and was delighted to see Whitley bay beach and St Mary’s Lighthouse, a local landmark. Dora said she could even hear the waves as they crashed up against the rocks.”