New tech brings virtual reality to Swaffham nursing home

Residents at Meadow House nursing home in Swaffham are enjoying fun and immersive experiences thanks to new virtual reality technology that has arrived at the home.

The new ‘VR’ kit enable residents to enjoy simulated versions of activities such as visiting underwater worlds, riding rollercoasters and sky diving.  Purchasing the equipment was made possible through very generous donations from families of the residents and friends of the community of Swaffham, plus fundraising within the home.

The home, which is rated as ‘outstanding’ by the Care Quality Commission, provides specialist nursing care to people with physical disabilities including multiple sclerosis. The activities team is now planning regular sessions using the new equipment as part of their full and varied offering to those they support.

The new technology has been extremely popular with residents to date, with residents saying “It was great to feel like I was on a roller coaster” and “I have always wanted to skydive”.

Home Manager Joanna Jankowska said: “It’s been fantastic seeing the residents using this fabulous new technology, which allows them to enjoy such unusual and immersive experiences.

“It may be in a virtual way, but providing these experiences really means a lot to our residents and makes things possible in a completely new and vivid way. Whilst we live under Covid restrictions, it’s even more important that we use innovative solutions to support our residents’ wellbeing.

“I’d like to thank everyone at the home for working so hard to raise funds towards this and all those who helped us with kind donations.”

Meadow House is based on Norwich Road in Swaffham. For more information on the range of respite and nursing care services provided, call 01760 725146.

Pip Rich