Photo provided Steph Cain, president; Molly Jenkins RN, Education, Amy Dager RN, Education, Sue Lamborn, Thrive Alliance and Laura Guill, Hospice Center Manager, are shown with donations from Thrive Alliance.
Our Hospice of South Central Indiana has received a donation from Thrive Alliance designed to significantly improve the quality of life for dementia patients.
The donation includes several lifelike robotic animals designed to provide sensory-based stimulation and comfort to patients experiencing dementia. These innovative pets have a calming effect, encouraging patients to smile, hug, and stroke their fur.
The tactile stimulation and realistic movements, like purring and meowing, offer a sense of companionship and entertainment. “Many of our respite care patients are living with dementia,” says Steph Cain, president of Our Hospice. “These robotic animals will make the transition from home to our care center much smoother. They not only provide comfort but also act as a catalyst for social connection, sparking positive interactions with staff, visitors, and fellow patients.”
Our Hospice, a certified Music & Memory organization, also received a Music & Memory kit. This kit includes a portable MP3 player, headphones, and a speaker, allowing us to create personalized playlists filled with music from the patients’ preferred genres, such as rock and roll, gospel, rhythm and blues or classical.
“Familiar music can have a profound impact on dementia patients,” explains Dr. Leigh Anderson, medical director at Our Hospice. “It can soothe agitation, reduce anxiety, and promote a sense of calmness. Music transcends communication barriers, fostering connection and a sense of belonging among patients.”
“We are incredibly grateful to Thrive Alliance for their generous donation,” says Cain. “These gifts will allow us to further personalize our care and better meet the needs of our dementia patients.”
