Dutch for ‘magic table’, Tovertafel is ceiling-mounted and projects interactive light games onto an everyday table surface.
Developed in the Netherlands and renowned for its approach to dementia care, the technology is beginning to spread around the world, with the Guille-Alles launching it on Thursday. [28/2]
Library staff are holding an open day of demonstrations at La Nouvelle Maraitaine community library, with members of the public encouraged to come and see the technology in action and try it for themselves.
Deputy chief librarian Jodie Knight said: ‘We’re very proud to join more than 2,000 care centres, hospitals and libraries across the Netherlands and the UK who have installed a Tovertafel and are helping to create moments of happiness for nearly 50,000 people every single day.’
The games have been tailored to people with varying stages of dementia and they can be played both individually and in groups.
Light animations are projected onto a table. As players reach out towards them, the lights respond to their hand and arm movements.
Games include gardening, fishing, and popping bubbles.
They can also be adapted for use by groups with other needs, including people with autism and adults with severe learning difficulties.
The installation of the Tovertefal has been funded by Dementia Friendly Guernsey and cost about £7,000.
Dementia Awareness co-ordinator Julie Bulpitt said they were delighted to be working with the library to introduce Tovertafel to Guernsey and make it available to as many people as possible.
‘The Tovertafel games have been especially designed to maximise the potential across a wide range of stages of dementia, from slowing down progress in early stages through sensory stimulation through to relaxation, connecting with others and reminiscence in latter stages,’ she said.
Following the launch, the Tovertafel will be available for use by individuals and groups, including care homes, at La Nouvelle Maraitaine community library.
The open day is being held at La Nouvelle Maraitaine community library on Thursday between 10.30am and 4.30pm.
For more information call 720392 or email ga@library.gg.
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