World first audio tech roll-out to boost seniors' wellbeing
A world first roll-out of next generation Bluetooth audio technology in retirement living is expected to improve wellbeing for up to 50 per cent of residents affected by hearing loss.
Delivered in partnership with Audeara, the rollout will see AuracastTM -enabled listening solutions installed across village community centres, making it easier for residents affected with hearing loss to engage in community activities and events.
Auracast technology introduces a new way to experience audio, allowing an unlimited number of users within range to listen to the same audio stream at a volume comfortable for them.
Anyone with an Auracast enabled device including hearing aids, ear buds or headphones can connect and listen seamlessly, making shared experiences easier to access.
Bolton Clarke Research Institute Research Fellow Dr Carly Meyer said the Institute’s biannual Health and Wellbeing in Retirement Living survey showed 45 per cent of village residents were affected by hearing loss, impacting their ability to stay connected with their community.
“In our retirement villages a lot of social activities are centred on the community centre – whether it’s special events, watching a football game or taking an exercise class,” she said.
“Supporting residents to stay engaged with those activities is so important for positive ageing because social isolation is linked to increased risk of chronic conditions and frailty.
“Audeara is helping us break down the barriers that can stop people attending events and ensures they don’t miss out on those important opportunities and relationships.”
Bolton Clarke Chief Operating Officer Retirement Living Brett Rice said the world-first implementation was part of a broader focus on positive ageing across Bolton Clarke’s 43 retirement villages nationally.
“The Institute has been working with village residents, frontline teams, and researchers from The University of Queensland Centre for Hearing Research to implement a range of hearing projects, including enabling hearing checks onsite and incorporating hearing and vision friendly design principles into village infrastructure,” he said.
“Now we are so pleased to be partnering with Audeara to embed Auracast technology across our 43 retirement villages, beginning in Queensland.”
Audeara Chief Executive Officer James Fielding said the rollout aligns with the company’s focus on helping people feel more connected through better listening.
“Hearing plays a vital role in how we connect with the world around us,” Dr Fielding said. “Auracast allows more people to listen better, engage more fully, and feel connected to the moments around them.”
Hearing Australia Principle Audiologist Emma Scanlan said the roll-out was an exciting initiative to improve access to hearing technology.
“In aged care and retirement living settings, technologies that support clear communication can make a real difference,” she said.
“Auracast provides a practical approach to improving hearing accessibility, helping residents more fully participate in activities they enjoy.”
She said a range of Auracast-enabled devices was now available through the Australian Government Hearing Services Program.
The Auracast rollout will be launched at Bolton Clarke’s Carrington retirement village at Parkinson on Thursday, 7th May, marking the beginning of a national installation across Bolton Clarke communities.
