Gerontology & Geriatric Research

Groves Elder Life (GEL) Project - virtual family visits for elderly patients

2^nd International Conference on Geriatrics & Gerontology

August 24-26, 2015 Toronto, Canada

Khalid Enver1, Laura Burns1 and Ali Enver2

1Groves Memorial Community Hospital, Canada 2Western University, Canada

Posters-Accepted Abstracts: J Gerontol Geriat Res

Abstract:

Geriatric patients admitted into hospital often have prolonged stays due to medical, surgical and social reasons. In addition, these patients can have elements of dementia, cognitive and mobility issues. They feel isolated and depressed in a different environment away from their loved ones. Although doctors, nurses and other services like physiotherapy provide the best possible care, a family connection is a vital link in the well being of patients. Sometimes it is not possible for family members to visit and it is here that technology can help bridge the gap. We at Groves Memorial Community Hospital in Fergus, Ontario recently launched the Groves Elder Life (GEL) project to virtually put patients in contact with family members.With the use of an iPad, patients�?? families can schedule calls using applications such as Skype and FaceTime. We started this project with the assistance of Elder Life Specialists from the HELP program and their volunteers at our hospital. We also formulated a privacy policy and ethical guidelines with final approval by the hospital�??s Medical Advisory Committee. Thus far, the feedback from patients, relatives and hospital staff has been very positive. We believe that such virtual family visits can greatly improve patients�?? well being and mood, helping decrease elements of depression and expediting recovery. Furthermore, such initiatives can have even greater advantages in larger geriatric wards, nursing and residential homes.

Biography :

Email: khalidenver1@gmail.com