LIGHTS, COLORS AND SOUND ALL AROUND Two new multi-sensory rooms in the Masonic Health Care Center’s memory support neighborhoods, at the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown, fully immerse residents in colors, lights, surround sound, image projection and even bubbles. The results for residents are movement, memories and a sense of wonder. Certified recreation therapists regularly help residents through relaxation programs, physical and cognitive exercises and alternative therapies, such as music and pet therapy and aromatherapy. The two new multi-sensory rooms and mobile cart, however, offer an integrative approach for meaningful and productive one-on-one sessions. Sensory stimulation uses everyday objects to arouse one or more of the five senses: hearing, sight, smell, taste and touch. The goals include: evoking positive feelings and improving overall mood; helping residents cope with negative emotions, communication and behaviors; increasing independence; improving activity level; lowering blood pressure; decreasing muscle tension; providing a relaxing environment for residents experiencing overstimulation; providing stimulation before mealtime for residents who may not eat well to increase their appetite; and providing opportunities for choice. The controlled environment promotes a calming and safe setting that incorporates a combination William Kingsbury, CEO; Jeffrey Wonderling, R.W. Grand Master; Ron Crawford, of Lodge No. 156; Emily Connors; Richard McMinn, of Lodge No. 156; Mike Rowe, executive director; Matt Mayo, assistant executive director/health care administrator; and Becky Kandrac, recreation therapist, dedicate the two multi-sensory rooms.
of seating options, vibration mats, projectors, bubble tubes and lighting. The technology allows each resident to create their own individualized experience to suit their preferences and needs. This specialized therapy is especially beneficial for residents with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, as well as those with a brain injury or chronic pain.
“We want our residents to continue to do the things they love, even if we have to adapt those activities,” Emily Connors, therapeutic recreation and life enrichment supervisor, said. “Having specialized multi-sensory rooms available enables us to help our seniors find joy and purpose each and every day.” Liz Eargle, recreation/music therapist, recently brought resident Ruth Barkley into one of the multi-sensory rooms for the first time. As a green geometric shape twirled around the walls and music played from a large speaker, Liz placed a board in front of Ruth with different colored tiles. Ruth moved her hand over each tile and a different sound, whether drums, a guitar or even a baby’s laugh, played along with the rhythm of the background music. Ruth’s toes began to tap as she “conducted” the music with her finger and hummed along.
“They start to move to the music with intentional responses,” Liz said. “I wait to see how they move to control the sounds. It engages higher thought processes.” Liz also asked Ruth where she’d like to “travel.” Within minutes of Ruth replying, “Florida,” an entire wall of the room filled with the image of a Florida beach. They discussed what Ruth enjoyed about her past visits to the Sunshine state. Masonic Village sought philanthropic support for the renovations and technology required to make the two multi-sensory therapy rooms and mobile cart a reality. A plaque was installed outside the rooms to recognize the support of Washington Lodge No. 156, Quarryville.
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Summer 2022 Issue
