iPad loan service keeps RangeCare clients in touch
91 year old Neta Sondergeld has been able to rejoin her book club, thanks to her iPad.
During 2020 COVID-19 restrictions, RangeCare noticed the difficulty its clients were having staying connected with loved ones. Unlike most of the world, many clients did not have the knowledge or funds to stay in touch through technology. This is mind, RangeCare created an iPad loan service which included an iPad with internet access and in-home tuition.
Paul Kotelevskii, one of RangeCare’s Technical Support Officers discussed that one of the first clients he tutored through this service was unsure. “The client was a bit sceptical about it at first, but I was there to organise a Facetime call to her daughter. All of a sudden her daughters face pops up on the screen, and you should’ve seen the clients face, so full of surprise and joy and happiness.” He continued that the client hadn’t had the opportunity to see her daughters’ face for months, and now can see and talk to her whenever she likes.
A year on, this service has continued to create joy for RangeCare clients. 91-year-old Neta Sondergeld signed up to the service in the hope of finding new ways to keep herself busy. Neta was an avid reader, but over the last two years had experienced major eye problems preventing her from reading. “I thought this is my only chance I’ll get at reading a book and doing things, so I put my hand up,” said Neta. Neta noted that her vision difficulties forced her to stop participating in her book club, however the larger font size with the iPad has allowed her to re-join.
Prior to her experience with the iPad, Neta said that “It was difficult to find an interest that you are not relying on your eyes for, and this seemed to be the answer to it all.”
When asked if she would recommend this service to others, she said “I would say don’t hesitate. It is really the most wonderful thing RangeCare has ever thought of. For people like me, you think what else can I do? You don’t want to be staring at a wall,” said Neta.
If you would like more information about this service, please call RangeCare on 07 5445 7044 or visit https://www.rangecare.com.au/ipad-loan-service.