Brackley care home brings world of magic to residents

Juniper House Care Home in Brackley has recently brought a bit of magic to residents by providing a new ‘Magic Table 360 and Happiness Programme.'

Designed and manufactured in the UK, the Magic Table 360 uses interactive games to connect residents with staff and with each other. Research shows it improves the wellbeing of people living with dementia.

Using interactive light projections, the Magic Table 360, which can be played independently or in a group, stimulates movement by inviting participants to take part in all sorts of different fun activities such as popping bubbles, playing the piano, colouring in pictures, sweeping leaves or interacting playfully with fish. Games are rich in colour, movement and detail, and allow people of all ages to play in a safe and comfortable environment.

The Magic Table 360 is portable so it can be used wherever residents feel most comfortable. It can be projected onto the floor, ceiling, walls, a whiteboard or even the bed. The 'Happiness Programme' allows for a range of games that change seasonally and have country-specific versions covering 14 different categories, so there will always be something new for residents to try.

The benefits of the Magic Table 360 has shown to improve mood and behaviours especially across the mid-to-late stages of dementia, greater physical, social and cognitive activity, reduction in withdrawn-like symptoms, weight gain and positive impacts on relationships with care staff, friends and family.

Rhiannon Crofts, general manager of the home, said: “We’re excited to bring a touch of magic to the residents at our home, the Magic Table 360 will make a big difference by helping to connect residents with staff and with each other, and it’s great fun for the young at heart.”

101-year-old resident, Elsie, said: “This is fantastic, I’ve never seen anything like this before. It is so clever."

Another resident, Annie, said: “What a fantastic resource that will benefit so many others here in the home. Aren’t we lucky.”

Dr Pete Calveley, CEO of Barchester Healthcare, said: “We are delighted by the initial response of the residents at Juniper House Care Home when using the Magic Table 360.

"Designed to create moments of happiness for the residents, it is heart-warming to provide positive and invaluable experiences, with residents more motivated to interact with staff, family and carers alike.”

Juniper House Care Home is run by Barchester Healthcare.