‘Ciao!’ program launches to combat loneliness in aged care

A new digital program Ciao! aimed at combating social isolation among elderly residents in Australian aged care facilities is set to pilot in Victoria.

The “Ciao!” Program, developed by the Amplifon Foundation and brought to Australia by the National Centre for Healthy Ageing (NCHA), Monash University and Peninsula Health uses large interactive screens to connect residents with engaging content and each other.

The initiative comes in response to findings from the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, which identified loneliness as a major challenge for over 200,000 Australians living in residential aged care. This issue was further exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Key features of the “Ciao!” Program includes:

1. Installation of 80-inch screens in six Melbourne aged care homes
2. Live, interactive content such as chair-based yoga, virtual travel, and therapeutic gardening
3. Video technology enabling residents to connect with residents in other facilities

Professor Terry Haines from Monash University emphasises that this program addresses a long-overlooked need in aged care. “This initiative aims to enrich the lives of those in residential aged care, addressing a need that has been overlooked for far too long.”

“Through the collaboration of the Amplifon Foundation and the National Centre for Healthy Ageing, we are introducing to Australia a model that has been successfully trialled overseas, bringing world-class research and initiatives to the Australian aged care sector.”

The initiative builds on the success of similar programs in Italy and Portugal, where it has been implemented in over 230 nursing homes since 2020.

NCHA Director Professor Velandai Srikanth highlights the program’s potential to significantly improve residents’ well-being through active engagement and social inclusion. Unlike passive television viewing, residents can interact directly with content providers, asking questions and seeking clarification.

“Through our partnership with Amplifon and the application of leading-edge technology, we are aiming to make a big difference in the lives of many.

“We know that loneliness in aged care centres is widespread, and so I’m excited to see the launch of this “Ciao!”’ Program in Australia, and to view first-hand the impact, enjoyment and social inclusion possibilities it will have for those living in residential aged care,” Professor Srikanth said.

Ritchelle Drilon

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Ritchelle is a Content Producer for Healthcare Channel, Australia’s premier resource of information for healthcare.

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