Bonnie Simons Research & Policy Centre Brotherhood of St. Laurence Online and in touch: the impact of using iPads on the wellbeing of residents in residential aged care Bonnie Simons Research & Policy Centre Brotherhood of St. Laurence National Ageing Research Institute 6th Annual Seminar - Understanding the role of technology in ageing Friday, September 25TH, 2015

New technologies, new opportunities Redefining ‘use’ in the digital age iPads in residential aged care BSL

New technologies, new opportunities Development of touch screen tablets and apps has made technology accessible to people not previously considered ‘computer users’. Increasing numbers of older adults are using iPads for staying connected to their families, engaging with the wider world, enjoying new forms of entertainment and renewing old interests. 2012 BSL began introducing iPads to Aged Care Services clients Community Home Care Package clients 2 residential aged care facilities Respite and dementia short stay program in Frankston

Redefining Use Passive Independent Interpassive Supported Assisted Functions and apps are accessed and used independently Functions and apps are accessed and used for resident benefit without active resident input. Passive Independent Redefining Use May require initial support to access but then uses functions and apps with minimal assistance Interpassive Supported Functions and apps are accessed and used by others with active resident input . Assisted Requires increased levels of support to access and use functions and apps This diagram is the intellectual property of the author and should not be used without correct attribution. Simons B, 2013 – Moving into the digital age in a residential aged care setting,

iPads at Sumner House Establishing the iPad program Engaging the residents

iPads at Sumner House iPad activities Benefits of iPad use

Broadening the definition of use provides opportunities for older adults not traditionally thought of as technology users to move into the digital age. As residents continue to use the iPads they become open to all sorts of possibilities. At aged 70, 80 or 90 they can still be excited about technology and new learning.