For many seniors’ living residents, whether it be a retirement village or residential aged care, television is an integral part of life, says Tom Enright, National Manager for Health at Foxtel.
TV is the most popular choice of entertainment for the over-65s, with Foxtel viewing data showing that the average person aged 65-79 spends 36 hours per week watching TV.
"It’s important for residents to have access to a variety of premium entertainment. Foxtel offers a wide range of sports, movies, new and classic TV shows, lifestyle, news, and documentary programs that ensure there is something for everyone,” Tom said.
TV can help facilitate social interactions and discussions among residents, assisting residents who might be feeling isolated or lonely to come out of their shell.
“Foxtel doesn’t just provide the latest entertainment and live sport but also has a huge back catalogue of classic TV shows such as Hogan’s Heroes, Dad’s Army, and Keeping Up Appearances,” Tom said.
“Showing these types of programs in the common areas of retirement villages and residential aged care can lead to a rekindling of positive memories and acts as a key socialising activity with other residents.
“Similarly, we know that many retirement villages and residential aged care homes will show our classic movies such as Some Like It Hot or The Bridge on the River Kwai in their theatre or movie rooms on a weekly basis.
“Live sport always brings people together and we know many villages and aged care homes will show the big NRL and AFL games in the lounges and common areas. These kinds of occasions really bring the community together.”
Foxtel’s Business iQ platform enables retirement villages or aged care facilities to add tailored information on their screens, such as weekly menus, and promotions of the in-house café or hairdresser – helping increase engagement in group activities and fostering that sense of community.
