Care home residents go cycling in the Swiss Alps without even leaving their armchairs

Residents at care village, Belong Macclesfield, have been experiencing cycling through the mountains of the Swiss Alps, walking through the streets of Amsterdam and rowing along the Rhine, with the help of specialist virtual reality cardiovascular equipment.

The exercise equipment has a high definition screen which shows images of geographical locations from around the world and several games set up on a separate screen, which are specifically designed for the older adult.

The system uses a 3D motion sensing camera to detect the person’s movements during the game, with the level of each exercise programmed to suit the user’s physical and cognitive capabilities.

The equipment has been proven to increase older people’s independence, balance, coordination, mobility and emotional well-being.

Belong Macclesfield lead exercise instructor, Barbara Tait, said: “The Silverfit equipment is based on the science that shows that when we engage our brains in a game, it prompts our bodies to move almost ‘in spite of ourselves’. Our residents have enjoyed the success of increasing their cognitive and physical capabilities through exercise that is fun and specific to their needs.

“We have certainly seen an increase in well-being, confidence and physical strength amongst customers who have used this gym equipment.”

Belong Macclesfield was awarded level 2 Nesta Evidence of Change in research carried out by the National Centre for Sport and Exercise Medicine on behalf of Public Health England in 2015. It also won the prestigious Excellence in Ageing Services award from the International Association of Homes and Services for the Ageing (IAHSA) in 2013.

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