A care home in Harrogate has been utilising technology to keep residents connected with loved ones during the pandemic – including an app that allows them to update family members on their activities.

The Granby Care Home in Harrogate have been helping residents combat social isolation and have made use of video call technology and private Facebook groups during the pandemic.

And through the “Magic Moments” app, residents are able to connect with family members by uploading images, videos and songs, as well as message loved ones directly.

https://www.facebook.com/brighterkindcarehomes/photos/a.1693692557531026/2904857496414520/

The Granby’s Leanne Walsh said:

“The concept came from the idea that a lot of residents come with a feeling of social isolation and loneliness, which we know is common as we get older, so the concept of the (Magic Moments) club came from being able to tackle that.

“It’s one of the ways we make our residents feel a part of something, so when they come into our home they’re automatically a part of that club and it’s all about being all-inclusive for everyone. We really focus on the residents’ interests, their life histories and their mind, body and soul is a really big part of our programme.”

The app also brings residents news, ideas and entertainment and is just one of a number of ways that the Granby encourages residents to interact.

Leanne added:

“One of the things that has been really popular is the History Club – it stimulates the mind and has those reminiscing moments which we know are really powerful.

“The really great thing is the residents come along, enjoy the activity but then the team member who leads it will give them a brochure to take away afterwards. They then often notice the conversation continuing for the rest of the day, which combats social isolation that residents might be feeling and helps build the relationships between them.”

Find out more about “Magic Moments” and about The Granby Care Home in Harrogate here.

Your Harrogate’s Nick Hancock was joined by Leanne to chat about the Granby Care Home and their “Magic Moments” – listen to the full chat here:

Read more local stories from Your Harrogate here.