Magic table helping people with dementia

The Tovertafel - a Dutch word meaning 'magic table' - is an award-winning innovation from the Netherlands, a country renowned for its cutting-edge approach to dementia care, and is now at Muscliff Care Home.

Residents living with mid to late stage dementia can now take part in in a series of Tovertafel games which can be played independently or in groups, and have been researched and designed alongside people living with dementia so that they exactly match their needs.

The games consist of a series of interactive and intriguing light animations that can be projected on any table. They encourage participation because, when the player's hands move, they find they can change the animation, motivating their mind and inspiring them to become more active.

One game involves a gently rotating pink flower which players discover they can enlarge or make smaller with their own efforts. Another game involves the impression of fish gently swimming beneath a player's hands.

Some games - often enjoyed by children with special needs - can be livelier - trying to slap or pounce on moving shapes. Others are a quieter version of this - the impression of autumn leaves, which older players seem to enjoy moving with their hands. "They are all about enjoyment and wonder," says the manufacturer.

Dedrey Charles, the Matron at Muscliff Care Home said that taking part helped with health and quality of life. "It's provided accessible games to the residents at different level in their dementia journey in a safe environment."

"We find the use of the magic table very stimulating and it can create amazing moments of happiness for staff, family members and loved ones alike," she said.

The launch of the Muscliff Tovertafel was attended by the mayor of Bournemouth.