The SilVR Impact Excellence Award, created to honour outstanding aged care providers in Australia and New Zealand, has recognised Signature Care Langwarrin for their innovative use of virtual reality (VR) technology to enrich the lives of their residents. The award, which attracted heartfelt stories from numerous care teams, celebrates the potential of VR in enhancing aged care experiences.
Signature Care Langwarrin’s submission stood out for its compassionate approach to integrating VR into their care routine. Their introduction of SilVR Adventures VR headsets has transformed how residents engage with the world, bringing joy, comfort, and adventure into their lives. Residents, families, and care teams alike have shared overwhelmingly positive feedback, illustrating the profound impact VR has had in the facility.
I’m incredibly proud of our achievements using the virtual reality headsets with our residents.
Roxanne Bronsema, member of the Wellbeing team at Signature Care Lanwarrin
There has been so much excitement, emotion, and sheer joy, which warms our hearts to watch.”
Signature Care Langwarrin highlighted several touching stories in their submission.
Lee, a resident in the Banksia Memory Support Wing, uses VR to virtually revisit England, where he spent his childhood. With tears in his eyes, he shared, “It’s like going home,” as he reconnects with treasured memories – these virtual trips provide emotional solace and a deep connection to his past.
For Eva, another resident, VR fulfilled a lifelong dream of visiting Paris. With the help of the wellbeing staff, she virtually toured the Eiffel Tower. These experiences have given her a renewed sense of purpose and joy.
Bill, a resident from the Acacia Wing, found a new zest for life after experiencing a virtual skydiving experience. After the exhilarating session, he enthusiastically asked for a virtual rollercoaster ride. For Bill and many others, these VR journeys have reignited a sense of excitement and wonder.
In celebration of NAIDOC Week, Signature Care Langwarrin hosted a VR session that took residents on a virtual musical journey through Australia’s outback. The room was filled with sensory elements such as eucalyptus branches and traditional artifacts, creating a multisensory experience that connected residents to Australia’s rich cultural heritage.
This immersive experience left residents visibly moved, demonstrating the true potential of VR to foster deep emotional and cultural connections.
In recognition of their achievements, Signature Care Langwarrin’s Wellbeing team has been awarded $2,000 in Flight Centre vouchers, offering the caregivers an opportunity to embark on their own real-life adventures.
