A bit of magic

We have been able to bring a little bit of magic to our ladies and gentlemen at Pine Martin Grange after introducing a new interactive light projector which enables them to play stimulating games.

Provided in partnership with Social-Ability and designed and manufactured in the UK, the Happiness Programme uses interactive games to connect residents with staff and with each other.

Research shows it improves the wellbeing of people living with dementia and other cognitive challenges, and it is now being used to great effect at Pine Martin Grange.

Using interactive light projections, the Happiness Programme, which can be played independently or in a group, stimulates movement by inviting participants to take part in all sorts of different fun activities such as popping bubbles, playing the piano, colouring in pictures, sweeping leaves or interacting playfully with fish. Games are rich in colour, movement and detail, and allow people of all ages to play in a safe and comfortable environment.

The Happiness Programme is portable so it can be used wherever those using it feel most comfortable. It can be projected onto the floor, ceiling, walls, a whiteboard or even the bed and allows for a range of games that change seasonally covering 14 different categories, so there will always be something new to try.

We introduced the projector at Pine Martin Grange as part of our varied activity programme and just before Christmas we invited children from a local primary school, Sandford St. Martin’s, to come in to use it with the residents.

Helen Lacey, Pine Martin Grange Home Director, said: “We have a varied and stimulating activity programme and even though we only introduced the projector recently, it has quickly become a important part of the programme.

“It’s already having a very positive impact on the health and wellbeing of our ladies and gentlemen, particularly those living with dementia and people struggling with limited mobility.

“It was also lovely for the residents to be able to meet the children and play the projector with them. We have never seen so many smiles on faces!”

Abby Benko-Robbins, Teacher and Music Lead at Sandford St. Martin’s Primary School, said “The children absolutely loved taking part in the games and activities the projector provided. It was lovely seeing how the residents and children interacted with each other in a fun and stimulating environment. The children haven’t stopped talking about it!”

The benefits of the Happiness Programme has shown to improve mood and behaviours, greater physical, social and cognitive activity, and positive impacts on relationships with care staff, friends and family.

John Ramsay, Managing Director of Social-Ability, said: “We are thrilled to be working with Dormy Care Communities to bring the Happiness Programme to Pine Martin Grange.

“It is fantastic to see the company investing in technology like this which can improve wellbeing and make a real difference in people’s lives and those of their families.”