Computer games and puzzles for the elderly

Peninsula Village in Umina has introduced computer consoles to stimulate residents with games and quizzes.

They are based on "play therapy" for people who are ageing or experience dementia, alzheimer's disease, depression or lack of intellectual stimulus, according to Village chief executive Mr Shane Neaves.

"We had extensive consultation session with our employees to weigh up whether this device would be beneficial for our residents.

"The overwhelming response was that it would really add to our existing lifestyle activities," he said.

"It's slightly larger than a standard computer and is quite easy for our residents to use as it is a touch screen," he said.

Mr Neaves said the games included those that involved short and long-term memory skills, those that required a level of thought to work out the answer and those that stimulated intellect, motor skills, memory and old-fashioned playtime.

"The technology is designed to encourage social integration as well and we're seeing many of our residents enjoying the games together and our lifestyle team members are using it in our main hall linked to the TV for group activities."

Originally created in the Netherlands, the console is sold as BrainTrainerPlus.

Its purchase came from contributions of $3500 from the Everglades Country Club and $1000 from Woy Woy Leagues Club under the Club Grants scheme.

"We've already noticed that the BrainTrainer is helping residents reminisce, talk about the good old days and gives them a sense of accomplishment," said Mr Neaves.

"They feel rewarded when using it and it is stimulating interaction and competition amongst friends."

SOURCE:

Media release, 4 Mar 2020

Katey Small, Brilliant Logic