Technology to Support Resident Engagement in Care Homes

Technology is increasingly becoming another resource available to care home activity teams, sitting alongside the games, activities and other experiences they already provide for residents.

That doesn't necessarily mean replacing familiar activities with something digital. Technology can provide another way to access content, introduce different experiences and give teams more options to draw on when planning sessions.

So what can technology actually add to resident activities, and where does it fit?

One practical use of technology is the ability to access different types of content through the same device or platform.

Depending on the technology, that might include quizzes, games, music, creative applications, puzzles, maps, photographs or movement-based activities.

Rather than relying on a device for one particular purpose, digital platforms can bring different types of activities and content together in one place. This gives activity teams a wider range of options to draw on, whether they're planning an individual, one-to-one or shared session.

Different types of technology lend themselves to different uses.

A personal tablet can work well where one resident wants to access content independently or as part of a one-to-one session.

Larger interactive technology provides another option where several residents are taking part in the same activity, giving people more space to see and interact with the content together.

Neither replaces the other. The useful question is how the technology will actually be used within the setting. For a closer look at shared sessions, see Interactive Group Activities for Care Home Residents.

How residents physically interact with technology is another consideration.

Standard devices, such as smartphones and tablets, require dexterity, fine motor control and visual acuity. In a care environment, screen size, positioning, visibility and the way somebody controls the content can all affect how practical a device is for different users.

Inclusive technology takes a more thoughtful approach to accessibility. Beyond larger interfaces and adjustable positioning, interaction can be adapted to match individual physical abilities. Touchscreens can respond not only to direct finger contact, but also to alternative tools such as prostheses, pointer sticks, or paintbrushes. Furthermore, adjustable screen brightness and customisable icon sizes help accommodate different visual needs, ensuring content remains clear and easy to navigate.

This doesn't mean one format will suit every resident. It does mean there are more options available than simply handing someone a standard tablet.

For technology to become a useful part of an activities programme, it also needs to be straightforward for staff to use day to day.

That means being able to find and start activities without unnecessary set-up, move between content easily and understand how to get the most from the technology.

Training and ongoing support are important here too. Giving teams the opportunity to explore what's available and having somewhere to turn when they need help can make it much easier to incorporate new technology into regular use.

Remark Group is the official UK partner for YetiCare.

YetiCare is designed specifically around interactive activities in care and educational environments. It combines a large adjustable touchscreen with access to YetiApps, bringing a range of ready-made games and activities together through one platform. It can be used individually, one-to-one or as part of a shared activity, providing another option for care teams looking to introduce interactive technology into their activities programme.

If you've already decided that a large interactive screen could be right for your setting, our guide to Interactive Touchscreens for Care Homes: What to Look For covers the next stage in more detail.

Explore YetiCare for Care Homes