People in their golden years are revelling in the magic of the silver screen – as it forges vibrant, virtual communities across Lanarkshire.

The latest video conferencing technology is being used as part of an initiative at some local authority and independent sector care homes across the area with residents linking in with each other for online get-togethers, ranging from sing-alongs to group exercise.

The work is paving the way for virtual clinical consultations and support between residents and services like Dietetics, Pharmacy, Out-of-hours and Community Mental Health teams.

Yet for most, who grew up without television, the cutting edge developments are bringing a sense of togetherness and fun into their lives – reminiscent of simpler times.

Ian MacFarlane (74), a resident of Kirkton House Care Home in Blantyre said: “I come from a generation where families would gather round in living rooms for a chat and perhaps a song before television was so accessible.

“The widespread availability of TVs has often being blamed over the years for the loss of that golden age.

“But that all seems to have come full circle – it’s the screen that’s bringing folk back together again. It’s just magnificent!”

Morag Hearty, NHS Lanarkshire’s Telehealth Manager, explained: “The initiative is at its early stages but the results we’re seeing now bode extremely well.”

“As well as aiding staff training and inter-home communications, one of the wider aims is to really establish the links between homes and clinical supports. From some of the work we’ve carried out so far, as with other established areas of Telehealth, we know benefits include ease of accessibility and helping residents maintain their own independence without having to leave their homely setting for routines checks, where safe and appropriate.”

Morag added: “The technology is allowing people to remain connected and even forge new relationships.”