A company based on the Isle of Wight has announced the launch of a new service to help older people at home stay connected.
Auris Buddies has been designed to keep the elder generation connected by providing them with access to Alexa devices for video calling and other services. It is free to use for those in care homes.
The idea was inspired by a pilot project that AurisBuddies conducted on the Isle of Wight, together with partners Embracing Age and Oakray Care. The pilot project showed that the use of Alexa devices could have a significant impact on the lives of older people in care. For example, the devices can be used to make video calls, listen to music, set reminders, and make lists and get news and weather updates.
Sam Caswell, Regional Manager at Oakray Care, has said:
“I cannot express strongly enough the positive impact this is having on residents who are not able to have regular visits – if only we’d had this during lockdown!”
Speaking for Embracing Age, Rebecca Savage adds:
“The project was the perfect extension to all the other work our volunteers carry out across the island.
“As part of a charitable mission, AurisBuddies and Embracing Age will continue to provide the service free to Care Homes on the island.”
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AurisBuddies, for those at home, is a paid for service that is delivered by an AurisBuddie in the customer’s home with the help of a chosen loved one normally a child or grandchild. The loved one is coached on how to play their part by using the Alexa App and how to help their parent or grandparent connect with family and friends.
Jamie Macaulay, Mnaging Director of AurisBuddies, says:
“We are excited to launch AurisBuddies and help more older people stay connected.
“We believe that this service can make a real difference in the lives of older people and their families”
