The Fremantle Trust wanted to enhance facilities within its residential home, Carey Lodge, with equipment that would enhance the lives of its residents, many of whom have dementia, through greater interaction and stimulation.
And, rather than a static installation that would limit use to only a few specific rooms; OM Interactive introduced the trust to its Mobii interactive system.
Mounted on wheels, the unit is fully portable to move from room to room and has height adjustment so it can project imagery onto bedsides, dining tables, or floors.
Involving people in activities which stimulate movement, communication and mental engagement is beneficial and ultimately enhances quality of life
The unit is equipped with a high-brightness, high-resolution Optoma W320UST ultra-short-throw projector and has 100 apps, including interactive quizzes to encourage discussion and memory recall; scenes and sounds from nature, including virtual water effects and therapeutic colouring; social games promoting physical dexterity and nostalgic themes; and music to stimulate conversation and support reminiscence work.
Sue Faulkner, community and lifestyle manager for The Fremantle Trust, said: “I was absolutely amazed at how active and involved our residents became when we introduced the Mobii.
“We have seen improvements in the wellbeing profiles of our residents, with a few showing a significant change in their overall outlook.
“Our residents are concentrating for far longer than before and, more importantly, they are showing enjoyment from interaction with fellow residents.”
We have seen improvements in the wellbeing profiles of our residents, with a few showing a significant change in their overall outlook
These results were mirrored in an extensive independent research project by Care Research which studied the use and impact of the Mobii Interactive table in care settings across the UK.
The study revealed an increase in independent physical movement among older people at care homes as a result of using the innovative product.
Mark Gilbert, design and project manager at OM Interactive, said: “Involving people in activities which stimulate movement, communication and mental engagement is beneficial and ultimately enhances quality of life.
“Care professionals witness positive changes in emotional stability, overall mood and outlook, a sense of self-worth and belonging, and social involvement in those that have used our system.”
