New technologies in social care at the Gaiļezers nursing home

On December 11, an interactive sensory and cognitive stimulation room was opened at the Gaiļezers Social Care Center in Riga. The sensory room was created as part of the project “Health Through Sensory Experiences,” which is financed by the Riga City Council Innovation Fund to introduce a new approach to social rehabilitation for people with dementia and other cognitive disorders. A safe and interesting environment has been created for seniors, where motion sensors and image projections allow them to participate in games, go on virtual walks, watch movies, listen to their favorite music, even view photos of family members, and perform various exercises. This approach helps improve attention, memory, and motor coordination, as well as reducing anxiety, loneliness, and social isolation, which is particularly important in cases of dementia.

“Today, I am doubly pleased that the innovation fund project has been implemented, in which we are using new technologies to create an enriching environment, joy, and peace for the residents of this nursing home. This should be continued in other social care centers, and it should definitely be shared internationally,” emphasizes Inese Andersone, Chair of the Riga City Council Social Affairs Committee.

The project “Health Through the Senses” has significant social importance: it modernizes the social care environment and improves the quality of services. The sensory room is accessible to people in wheelchairs, and bedridden patients can also be brought in so that everyone can use it. The room is also intended for nursing home staff so that they can relax and find peace, which promotes their well-being.