by AMANDA DAVIDSON, GRANT MANAGER, LEADINGAGE CALIFORNIA
In April 2020, LeadingAge California launched the Integrate fuN, Sustainable, Programming that is Innovative, Rewarding and Enriches (iNSPIRE) Project. Funded through a CMP grant awarded by the California Department of Public Health, the iNSPIRE Project provides nursing homes with iN2L engagement technology, which offers thousands of computer-based experiences aimed at improving quality of life, reducing psychotropic drug use, providing stress relief, and much more.
At The Reutlinger Community, Sukkat Shalom residents participated in their annual Art With Elders (AWE) 28th Annual Show & Artist Celebration. Residents used the iN2L Mobile Flex to experience the AWE virtual museum and feature their personal pieces. Other residents were delighted to use the touch screen technology to solve crossword puzzles.
At Artesia Christian Home Skilled Nursing, a resident was filled with joy while playing the virtual slot machines on the iN2L tablet. “She said she hasn’t played the slots for at least 20 years and she says it feels just like the real thing with all the sounds and colors!” said Liz Cole-Salcido, director of social services.
Liz went on to say, “She’s having so much fun with it and keeps telling us all these stories about her husband and memories they shared on all their Laughlin trips. She says she hasn’t thought about those memories in years and it gives her ‘happy tears’ to think of them again! We just LOVE hearing this!”
For more information about the iNSPIRE Project, contact Amanda Davidson at grants@leadingageca.org or visit https://www.leadingageca.org/inspire-grant.
