12 July 2010
Day centre to trial memory ‘unlocking’ dementia technology
Millbrook Day Centre will pilot the innovative reminiscence therapy software for 2 weeks. Walsall, Solihull and Newcastle-under-Lyme will also try out the technology over the next month.
The touch-screen technology uses specially selected sound and video clips to encourage people to reminisce about the past and talk about their memories of events and places.
It’s believed that reminiscence activities like this have a positive effect on people with dementia – helping them to feel more empowered and to interact and socialise with others.
Angela Causton, Dementia Care Manager, said: “We’re very excited to be trying this new technology and are keen to see what memories the images and sounds spark amongst members of the day centre.
“We regularly hold reminiscence activities at Millbrook - using old newspapers and photos - but we’re hoping that the different images and sounds in particular will result in lots of talking and fond memories being shared. “
Martin Valentine, Director of Dementia Life, said: “We are thrilled to supply Accord with one of our systems and we’re confident it will make a positive impact for all those who use its facilities.”
Accord has developed a number of its own innovative models for people with dementia and has a dedicated health and wellbeing team.
The Association uses a ground-breaking approach to care called the Eden Alternative. The approach uses the care of plants, animals and specific activities to tackle the feelings of loneliness and boredom often associated with growing older.
The reminiscence therapy technology is a joint project between the University of Dundee and the University of St Andrews.
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