The new partnership has boys from years 7-12 visiting the aged care facility once a week as part of their community service curriculum to coach residents on how to use Wii interactive video game technology.
Mercy Villa Maria Hostel service manager John Herbert said the positive response from students and seniors had been overwhelming.
“Our residents have taken to using the Wii technology better than anyone could have expected and it’s a great way for them to get involved in sporting activities again, even if it is from their armchair,” Mr Herbert said.
“Research suggests that Wii technology is beneficial for physical rehabilitation and cognitive improvement for older people and, what’s more, both the residents and the boys are very much enjoying spending time with each other.”
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Mercy Health is a Catholic community not-for-profit provider of care, founded by the Sisters of Mercy and grounded in a history of caring for those in need.
The organisation is a national service provider of health and aged care throughout Australia and in WA the organisation cares for more than 300 people across six residential homes, with 78 independent living units.