Aged care residents cycling around the world

An aged care home in Grafton, in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, is trialling the Motiview tool, which sees residents using specially adapted exercise bikes and visual technology to take them to their favourite destinations locally and around the globe.

Motiview was developed by Scandanavian supplier Motitech, to engage residents in exercise by adding a virtual bike tour element to the experience. This brings many benefits to residents who participate as it improves their physical health and stamina, along with their cognitive health.

How does it work?

The innovative tool helps older people to become more motivated to engage in exercise. As a resident cycles, they see video footage of places that are familiar to them such as a town they grew up in, or a special family holiday they enjoyed. They can also listen to their favourite songs as they pedal, which makes the experience even more enjoyable.

Residents are able to choose from wide range of places around the world to cycle through. Residents at the aged care home in Grafton have so far enjoyed virtual rides through Ireland, Canada, Coffs Harbour and Sydney. Resident cyclists can pedal with their feet or use the hand pedalling option as they enjoy a virtual visit to their favourite places.

How it brings social connection

Importantly, the program offers opportunities for social connection as residents are encouraged to share their stories and special memories as they cycle virtually locally or around the world. They can even compete against others in a friendly cycling competition which allows them to connect to others outside of the care home too.

Thanks to the program, the award-wining aged care provider, has known seen their residents spending more time connecting with others in a fun and engaging way.