When our Lifestyle and Wellbeing team at The Churchill Retreat sat with management to brainstorm improving their Memory Support Unit (MSU), the most important stipulation was that any improvements could not over stimulate the residents requiring support.
Our team researched to find that birds and silhouettes have a calming effect on residents with dementia, cognitive impairments and behavioural issues. The team sourced appropriate designs, and through collaboration with residents it was decided to display a silhouette of a tree with birds perched on the branches, and others seen to be flying away.
All hands on deck
Some residents in the MSU were excited to help paint the birds, while others were happy to sit and watch the transformation take place.
Once the tree silhouette was complete, residents helped place the birds in and around the tree and a light globe was purchased to place inside the ‘nest’ in the tree. This battery operated globe is left on at night and it not only showcases the effect of the mural, but also peacefully lights the area for resident safety.
Improvements in behaviour
This project has already had a marked effect on minimising wandering and disruptive behaviours, and our MSU residents have responded in beautiful ways. Rex will stop to look at the tree, follow the birds with his eyes and say how beautiful and calming it is, David’s daughter has commented on how she absolutely loves the tree with the birds, and staff say it is beautiful, the area is so improved and that they feel inspired when they look at it.
Thank you to our Lifestyle team
A successful initiative that has improved the experience of all who enter this area, a huge thank you to Michelle and her team for bringing this to fruition.
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