Innovative technology keeping minds active at John Wesley Gardens

When the new John Wesley Gardens opened its doors in October last year, it did so with the focus on being an innovative aged care community that puts the resident at its heart.

Recently, this commitment to innovation was reaffirmed with the introduction of their very own BrainTrainerPlus into the community.

The BrainTrainerPlus is a stand-alone 20-inch touch screen with sophisticated memory games.

With dementia the single greatest cause of disability in older Australians (aged 65 years and older)*, John Wesley Gardens is employing researched techniques to ensure residents are empowered to live active lives, both mentally and physically.

Wesley Mission Queensland’s Director of Residential Aged Care, Annie Gibney said the use of the Brain Trainer Plus is an important diversional therapy activity for all residents, particularly those living with dementia.

“We know from research the importance of keeping our minds active and engaged as we age, and these short-term memory games offer stimulating and easy games for our residents to play,” she said.

“Using tools such as the BrainTrainerPlus allows staff to find innovative and unique ways to engage each resident and cater to their interests and find out how we can support them on their journey.”

Director of Brain Trainer Plus Australia, Simone Ell, said the software is easy to use for all age groups.

“Experiences from users show that the BrainTrainerPlus has an enormous improvement in quality of life for aged care residents and contributes to a fun and playful atmosphere in communities where residents can engage and play the games together or with family and friends.”

The inclusion of the BrainTrainerPlus was made possible thanks a Gambling Community Benefit Fund grant.

* Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (2012) Dementia in Australia.