Mildura/Media Release: February 8, 2023
Mildura aged care residents will soon be joining wildlife safaris in Africa, drifting over exotic temples in hot air balloons, riding rollercoasters, rafting down rapids, cruising the seven seas and frolicking at the beach thanks to the debut of new virtual reality therapy goggles at the leading Mildura aged care provider, Princes Court.
The hi-tech Neurons VR goggles aim to enhance the quality of life for aged care residents and support their physical, mental and emotional needs, with one 75-year-old resident at Princes Court retirement village in Mildura describing her first experience with the multi-sensory goggles as the most exciting day of her life.
A set of five of the 3D goggles have been purchased by Princes Court at a cost of $25,487, with Mildura Rural City Council supporting the project with a $10,000 grant under its Community Development Program.
Acting Chief Executive Officer of Princes Court, Carrie Chappell, said the virtual reality goggles had quickly proven a valuable, effective and popular activity and therapy for residents. “Through the magic of virtual reality, our residents can experience and enjoy the wonders of the world from the comfort of their armchairs, boosting their mental and physical wellbeing, adding more joy to their lives and putting a smile on their faces,” Ms Chappell said.
Backgrounded by stirring music, the VR kits offer a variety of calming, exciting, inspiring and immersive experiences encompassing travel, nature, wildlife, adventure and beautiful scenery, with each experience encouraging emotional and physical interaction and lasting about three to eight minutes. The goggles will be shared with the 100 residents at Princes Court Mildura retirement village regularly with care staff also encouraging residents to enjoy the armchair rides with visiting friends and family.
“Sharing a wonderful and stirring experience like this with loved ones strengthens emotional bonds and enhances connection and communication,” Ms Chappell said. “These wonderful virtual experiences can also evoke warm memories for many residents and allow them to experience fun things and see amazing places they couldn’t enjoy otherwise.
“Research shows VR technology aids in occupational therapy, reduces feelings of isolation and loneliness and helps residents feel valued, motivated, happy and positive. These googles brighten residents’ lives considerably so they’ve proved to be an excellent investment and we’re thankful of the support given by the Mildura Rural City Council.”
“Princes Court is committed to embracing the use of technology for the benefit of residents. We’ve also boosted our Wi-Fi network recently to help residents connect more easily and quickly with the wider world. The wellbeing of our residents is our number one priority and we’re always working to ensure this chapter of their lives is more enjoyable and rewarding.”
Established in 1957, Princes Court is a major, not-for-profit community providing for 100 Mildura aged care residents, 76 independent living residents and a growing number of clients who benefit from Princes Court’s new domestic support services at home. In 2020, Princes Court received a prestigious, national award for Excellence in Age Services from Leading Aged Services Australia.
Princes Court Ltd
27-29 Princes St
Mildura VIC 3500
03 5022 1022
www.princescourt.com.au
Media Contacts:
Carrie Chappell, Acting Chief Executive Officer Princes Court, 03 50550923
Andrew Mevissen, Rock Solid Marketing, 0431 883 057