Gaming Project to Connect Generations

As part of the SA Government’s ‘Open Your World’ wellbeing strategy, older people are set to codesign new opportunities to connect via gaming platforms. Leading aged care provider, ACH Group was awarded $75,000 to deliver the innovative 'Stay in the Game' program.

The program has been designed to engage older South Australians in online videogaming and simultaneous voice chat, enabling physical activity, social engagement, goalsetting and achievement from home.

After an unprecedent start to 2020, this is one of 19 co-contributed projects to strengthen South Australians’ resilience and wellbeing in response to the impacts of COVID-19.

Recognising the opportunity to connect generations, ACH Group CEO, Frank Weits said older people can interact with others, including their family through programs such as PlayStation, Nintendo, Animal Crossing and Arc.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has prompted many people to take up new technologies to stay connected with family and friends and gaming is another fun way for this to occur”. Mr Weits said.

Partnering with Office of Ageing Well and Flinders University, this project will co-design and promote gaming to older people across South Australia.

“We support lifelong learning and recognise the benefit of staying active and having meaningful engagement”.

“This initiative will be of benefit regardless of current technology use or knowledge. Our experience with introducing a Smart Technology service showed a high interest in embracing digital solutions to stay safe, healthy and connected at home”.

Great Grandmother, Evelyn Mack 88, is looking forward to expanding beyond board games to play Nintendo Switch on TV with her kids and grandchildren.

“Learning new skills is just another way to keep the brain sharp” Mrs Mack said.

The project is seeking interest from South Australians aged 65 years and over as well as younger people of all ages who have a relative aged 65+ who would also like to be involved. Other interested parties such as school teachers who would like their class involved can also contact ACH Group on 1300 22 44 77 to register their interest.

Pictured: ACH Group customer, Evelyn Mack 88 is excited to learn more about gaming to connect with her family. (Brenton Edwards/Newspix)