New sensory room will help dementia patients
A PURPOSE-BUILT sensory room to help dementia patients communicate their thoughts and feelings has opened at a Rhondda hospital.
The new room at the Lewis Merthyr Day Unit at Ysbyty George Thomas in Treorchy will use projected video or photographs, sounds, lights, textures and smells to stimulate patients’ memories.
It’s all down to the work of occupational therapist Hayley Jones, 33, who was supported by Cwm Taf University Health Board to develop the project as part of her Improving Quality Together (IQT) Silver Award.
Hayley has created computer files for each patient, detailing their lives, with photographs and tailored themes.
The information is gathered from each patient’s This is Me document, which gives information about a person with dementia such as needs, preferences, likes, dislikes and interests.
Hayley, who also works at the Royal Glamorgan Hospital, said: “I knew members of staff would like a sensory room for the patients so I took it on board for my IQT silver award.
“The sitting room which was here before had a dark carpet and old fashioned wallpaper and it has been revamped.”
Annette Green, the day unit manager at the hospital, talked about the difficulties that people with dementia have in communicating.
“Very often, they live in their previous lives,” she said.
“The room can be set up to be all about their life and the things they have in common.
“Some enjoy music such as the Osmonds or David Cassidy and by playing music they want to dance.
“Others like to engage with textiles, or doll therapy, or feel comforted by pets.
“For example, we have a model cat in a basket which purrs when it is stroked.”
Hayley added: “Staff can bring in a patient who may feel quite agitated and the room is a haven, if you like, where they can experience soothing sights or sounds.
“I have selected images for each patient so that they can have a conversation about the photographs.
“There are also more generalised files with photos of Rhondda which can be used to stimulate a conversation.”
The room complies with guidelines on the treatment of patients with dementia.
Dr Paul D Davies, Cwm Taf assistant director of operations (mental health), said: “Hayley and the team have worked extremely well to bring about such a personalised and innovative environment to improve memory, reduce agitation and provide quality of life experiences.
“There is a science basis to this and it is an excellent example in how we apply research to practice and importantly a testament to the high commitment and determination of all our staff.”