WATCH: Dementia-friendly 'Magic Table' launched

Thursday 30 May 2019

Guernsey's first 'Magic Table' is now up and running, giving local people living with dementia the chance to socialise, engage and be active.

The Tovertafel - which is Dutch for 'magic table' - has been set up in the community library at La Nouvelle Maraitaine and is now open every Thursday morning for public use.

It features 14 different games designed specifically for people with varying stages of dementia, which can be played both individually or in a group.

"It's designed to encourage instinctive participation, inviting engagement and stimulating a level of physical and social activity rarely seen in people living with dementia," said Librarian Jackie Burgess. "A husband and wife came in - the husband had dementia - and it made her happy to see him engaging. He hadn't engaged with anybody for three years and he sat down and was chatting with my colleague."

Light animations are projected onto the table and as players reach out their hands, the animations respond to their movements.

There are also a number of props which can be used along with the table, including a dustpan and brush to sweep up animated leaves and a bowl to catch animated fish.

"We are aiming to introduce more games to interact with people with autism and special needs," Ms Burgess added. "Also, children actually enjoy playing with it as well so eventually we hope to purchase more games, but primarily it's here for those living with dementia."

Guille-Alles Library staff will be on hand to help at La Nouvelle Maraitaine between 09:30 and 12:30 every Thursday.

Pictured top: Jackie Burgess and Olivia de Lisle from the Guille-Alles Library.