LG Electronics has partnered with Care Messenger, the creator of Chatta TV video call and messaging platform, to improve communication and wellbeing for elderly residents across South Lanarkshire Council’s care homes in Scotland.
It marks the first time a UK council has deployed LG Care Messenger across its care homes and is designed to tackle digital exclusion among vulnerable groups. The platform allows residents to stay connected with loved ones and carers using the technology most familiar to them - the television or display in their rooms.
Care Messenger is built into LG’s Pro:Centric displays, where messages, photos, and video calls appear directly over live TV, without the need to change inputs or channels or even open a separate app. Families can send updates through the Chatta mobile app in real time, while residents can reply easily using their remote control - including through simple multiple-choice responses, or receive urgent alerts when needed. Carers and healthcare providers can also communicate with residents via Care Messenger’s secure management portal. The system also has an automated ‘photo carousel’ and digital clock option to support residents with early onset of dementia.
Professor Soumen Sengupta, Chief Officer of South Lanarkshire University Health and Social Care Partnership, said: “What sets this project apart is not simply its use of digital tools – but the way it prioritises familiarity, accessibility and dignity. Rather than expecting residents to adapt to technology, the team adapted technology to the needs and habits of residents. This small shift has made a big difference.”
According to South Lanarkshire Council’s health and social care partnerships this group represents around 94% of people in care homes. Many older users find touchscreens difficult due to eyesight or coordination challenges and prefer familiar technology like a TV and remote control.
The rollout, supported through the Glasgow City Region 5G Innovation Award, marks a rare full deployment in social care, rather than a pilot. South Lanarkshire Council has now installed LG Care Messenger in every room across all its council-run care homes, after being praised for its simplicity and positive impact on residents’ wellbeing.