Special Alexa devices have proved to be a hit with both residents and staff in Orchard Grove and Meadowburn Care Homes.

Glasgow City Health and Social Care Partnership (HSCP)’s Older People Residential Services has been taking part in an exciting and innovative trial, using specially designed Alexa devices and digital connection boxes.

The trial is part of the Connected Care and Wellbeing Project, a Glasgow City Region programme, funded by the Department of Science, Innovation and Technology to look at harnessing digital technology in care services.

Special Alexa Home Hubs allow residents and their families to listen to favourite pieces of music and songs, extending quality time with loved ones.

Staff also use them for music and movement sessions with residents, which help to improve balance, reduce the risk of falls and increase social interactions.

The devices don’t gather data or record conversations and meet data protection regulations, thus protecting the privacy of residents and staff.

The devices can also be used to operate smart televisions and linked to iPads, allowing virtual medical appointments for residents. This reduces unnecessary time spent out of the home by staff and long waits by residents for treatment.

Dean Sockalingum, Service Manager at Orchard Grove said: “The future uses of Alexa and our overall approach to digitalisation within care services is exciting and will greatly enhance the quality of life for our residents.”

A resident said: “It’s great. I get to listen to music and do my morning exercises. I feel like the green goddess!”

The Project Team, led by Glenda Cook, Transformation Manager within our Older People Planning and Transformation Team, has been awarded a further 12 months funding to extend and develop the trial next year. The introduction of family-and-friends calling, which will be a familiar concept to consumer Alexa users, and developing connected wearable or sensor-type devices for individuals will form part of planned outcomes for 2025 to 2026.

Glenda said: “It’s fantastic to have the opportunity to develop internet connectivity and explore the adoption of IoT technology (Internet of Things), within our care homes. Examples are Smart TVs, smart lights, or other physical devices that have network connectivity and use sensors to collect and exchange data. There’s limitless potential to enhance and improve individuals and carers experiences, from keeping in closer contact with loved ones, maintaining community connections and learning new digital skills.”