MAKE THE MOST OF TECHNOLOGY At Anchor we’ve seen first-hand the benefits of using technology to bring people together and engage people living with dementia. Electronic tablets can provide access to lots of information, pictures, music, and films to help calm and engage people living with dementia. We use tablets to connect with all residents, tailoring activities such as bingo and photo galleries to suit people’s own interests and life experiences. Virtual reality can also be used to support some people living with dementia to reminisce, but might not be suitable for everyone. You can download virtual reality apps on tablets / phones that allow people to be transported back to bygone days. Virtual reality headsets for these can be bought quite easily online The transformative power of music is amazing. It can help people recall certain memories, transporting people back to a favourite place and time and reconnecting them with loved ones. Whether listening to big band classics, rock music or relaxing country songs, music can have a positive impact that may relieve the anxiety, stress and agitation sometimes felt by people living with dementia. It’s important to find ways to have fun when living with dementia. A playful and active approach to dementia care can help with emotional stability and the development of trust. PUT ON YOUR DANCING SHOES Dancing is beneficial for both physical and mental wellbeing, providing a feel-good factor for everyone even if they are simply watching others having fun. Anchor’s research with the Beth Johnson Foundation has shown how creative activities, like dance, drama and music, can soothe, stimulate and engage underused but still active areas of the brain. There are plenty of dancing and acting videos online to make the most out of. EMBRACE THE POWER OF MUSIC
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