Webcam and Broadband for Residents Financially Supported by Federal Government

The Western District Health Service in Victoria is introducing a Virtual Visiting program that will enable aged care residents to stay in touch with friends and relatives via video conferencing. The project uses laptops, webcams and the internet to connect families and friends. They are receiving $120,000 in Commonwealth funding as a pilot project. They will develop a resource kit that will be distributed to other aged care facilities throughout Australia to help replicate the project. To enquire further go to www.wdhs.net
Separately, the Federal Government has launched a $15 million program that will establish 2,000 free internet kiosks over the next three years in community centres and clubs to help seniors to connect with families and friends. They will provide the computers and the broadband connections, plus training. It will be operated by NEC Australia, the Adult Learning Australia, Australian Seniors Computer Clubs Association, and the University of the Third Age Online. If you are interested or have a similar service in your facility and want some support, go to www.necseniors.net.au.