Mental health students at Bangor a University have been putting their new knowledge about dementia care into practice, they have designed and upcycled old cushions into sensory cushions, that might bring comfort to distressed and anxious patients in local hospitals.
Dr Marjorie Ghisoni, Lecturer Mental Health Nursing at Bangor University, said: “People who suffer from dementia will usually experience a gradual decline in brain functioning so that it can become difficult for them to express how they feel. Using sensory stimulation is a recognised way to help people with dementia relax.
“Research suggests that sensory cushions help people to relax and feel less anxious, as they are presented with familiar things that they understand. A button, a texture, a ribbon, or a sound will help them to reach deep memories that are not yet affected and brings comfort to their overactive thinking. Once they feel more familiar they are able to relax again.
“It is important to find ways to help people to do this without medication which often make them feel worse, more frightened or causes physical damage to the body for instance if they fall. The cushions also give people something to do, alleviate boredom and encourage communication or interaction with others.
Pictured are Dr Marjorie Ghisoni of Bangor University and Tina Macphail-Owen, Matron at Llandudno Hospital, who accepted some of the cushions that will be used in three of the care of the elderly wards, Aberconwy Ward, Morfa Ward & Llewelyn Ward.
