Tech provides comfort during hospital stays
A new device that can help reduce anxiety in dementia patients has been introduced to the Royal United Hospitals.
During the pandemic, hospital stays for people with dementia have become even more difficult, especially without loved ones to visit.
But now, thanks to the help of local businesses, the hospitals have been able to introduce reminiscence interactive therapy activities (RITA).
A RITA is a device which enables patients to enjoy a range of games, listen to music, view old photographs and watch films, to help spark memories and start conversations on the wards.
RUH dementia coordinator Astrid Siddorn said: “We would like to say a big thank you to Chris at Bath Woodburners and the other two companies.
“During these strange times, hospital stays for people with dementia have become even more difficult, especially without loved ones to visit.
“Your donation for a RITA enables us to support more patients as it reduces patients’ anxiety when they are out of their familiar environment, making patients’ stay in hospital more comfortable.”
RITA is mostly used on the hospital’s
older people’s wards but can be used by anyone to help reduce anxiety and distress when someone is out of their familiar environment. In additional to the popular reminiscence apps, patients can play bingo, quizzes and watch historic speeches and archive BBC news footage. Chris Clements, of Bath Woodburners, said: “My wife, Cerys, and I were personally very impressed with the work of the RUH and the care received by Cerys’ father, Joe Francis, when he was admitted last year. He was cared for incredibly well in a hugely difficult time for hospitals.
“We have been a fortunate business fitting woodburning stoves for people in the community during the pandemic and this busy period has enabled us and two other respected businesses to work together on giving something back to the community. “We heard about the RITA devices, which seemed like a great idea, and we know it will provide a valuable resource in helping those with dementia, their families and the staff at the RUH.” There are now five RITA devices in the RUH and it is hoped that additional RITA devices can be funded to support more patients in the future.