Technology grant reconnects aged care residents

Residents of Fairway Bayside Aged Care in Sandringham are once again enjoying local community programs and connecting with volunteers thanks to a $5,000 grant for new technology. 

Fairway Lifestyle Manager Tonianne Hawthorne was grateful for Bayside City Council’s immediate response to her request for support. “Aged care doesn’t often get this sort of funding: current technology is invaluable for keeping our community connected. This week is National Volunteer Week and we’re able to bring residents and groups of volunteers together through video conferencing.” 

During the Coronavirus pandemic, volunteers are unable to attend the facility and so many programs for residents have been put on hold. “We’re a small community facility – our volunteers are part of our family and the residents were really missing them. Since we got the IT equipment and accessories, it’s enabled us to continue with programs such as the Brighton Art Connection, our bibliography group, and prepare for our local kinder program to resume,” says Tonianne.

The three iPads, laptop and webcam purchased with the grant are also enabling residents to attend telehealth appointments and see far-away family. 

Technology will provide ongoing benefits for the centre, as Tonianne explains: “This gives us many more options for community connection and more flexibility during our day. The feedback from residents and their families has been really positive.”

Council encourages local not-for-profit groups that contribute to making Bayside a better place to live to apply for a Community Grant up to $7,500.

Our 2020/2021 Community Grants Program is open until Friday 5 June. This program supports organisations to strengthen and enrich community life through programs and activities in a range of areas including leisure, cultural awareness, environment, health, education, sporting and welfare. Find out more.