Member Article

Hull Kingston Rovers give care residents a technology warm up

Players from Hull Kingston Rovers recently visited a specialist dementia home to help residents try out the latest virtual reality technology.

Residents at Hica Group’s Elm Tree Court have received VR headsets due to successful fundraising efforts and positive feedback from other Hica homes using the interactive equipment.

Due to a close relationship with Hull KR, players called in to try out the new equipment with residents. Players often spend time raising funds for the home and often stop by to visit residents.

The new technology enables residents to swim with sharks and visit theme parks with the team. After using the VR equipment residents at Elm Tree Court were in high spirits, with many showing increased interactivity and engagement.

Adam Ward, Elm Tree Court manager, said: “The VR headsets allow our residents access to opportunities they wouldn’t normally have and we’re glad that they’ve had such a positive impact.

“We’re grateful to Hull Kingston Rovers. A lot of our residents are passionate rugby fans, there’s no doubt that their previous fundraising effort helped us secure this technology for our residents.

“The Rovers get on well with everyone here and often come in to help and chat with our residents in their spare time. It’s lovely being able to watch everyone use and enjoy this advanced technology.”

Penni Brown, chief executive of the Hica Group said: “It’s great when new equipment and activities are a success. I’m thankful to Hull Kingston Rovers for their ongoing support and donations. I am pleased that the VR headsets continue to lift spirits and interaction across our homes.

“Our committed staff and friends of the home are always fundraising, they love taking part in new activities and I am thrilled that due to the Shine Fund residents now have access to such advanced, enjoyable technology.”

The Shine Fund comprises of donations and proceeds from fundraising events across Hica Group services, which are reinvested into new entertainment technology, activities and events for residents.

Hull KR have continued to support Elm Tree Court through kind gestures, including the recent donation of a cheque presented to Craig Hall for obtaining man of the match status.

Elm Tree Court is part of the Hull-based Hica Group, a not for profit organisation which operates a portfolio of 15 care homes across Hull and the East Riding. The company also runs two retirement villages and a homecare service which provides approximately 11,500 hours of support from four regional offices in the north of England.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by The Hica Group .