Latest news with #Rendever

Calgary Herald

Carewest Rouleau Manor sees success through the use of VR technology for resident care

Carewest Rouleau Manor is bridging the gap between technology and mental health of their residents through the use of the Rendever VR system. Article content Recreation therapist, Emily Hawryluk, said the Rendever system came to their facility through another recreation therapist from the Carewest Dr. Vernon Fanning Centre. Article content Article content Although she was originally skeptical about the technology, she quickly saw the potential that it brought to their facility. Article content Article content 'I was really hesitant and I wasn't really crazy about it, but it came to our site and I set it up,' she said. 'After my first experience with a resident using it, I was hooked because I saw the impact it creates.' Article content Article content The Rendever system is composed of two VR headsets that are fully controlled by a tablet. The device is easy to use and intuitive for all users at the Rouleau Manor facility. Article content From 360° photos, virtual museum tours, and video experiences, the VR technology hosts several programs and games that deliver unique experiences for users. Article content The device allows Hawryluk to create better connections with her residents under their care. She would even accompany whoever is using the VR system by wearing the second set of goggles. Article content 'I was visiting someone who has been in his bed since COVID, and he used to be a biker and just loved being outside, but now he's in his room often and doesn't get much interaction,' she said. 'He was probably one of the first people I visited with the VR, and we went dirt biking together. Article content Article content 'He doesn't talk much because of his diagnosis, but he was getting really excited and started saying a few words, getting excited, and I felt like we really did something together.' Article content VR popular amongst residents Article content The Carewest Rouleau Manor facility specializes in complex mental healthcare. Their residents consist of anyone between the age of 20 and 65. Hawryluk said that more than their population is actually under the age of 65. Article content Because of this, the VR device is always seeing use throughout the week. Article content 'They probably use it 34 times a week,' she said. 'I'd say around a dozen people interact with it in a week.' Article content Through the use of the Rendever system, Hawryluk said it feels like she is making a difference by connecting with people through the use of new and exciting technology that allows her to build new connections in an innovative way.