The Potteries unveils innovative ‘Magic Table’ technology

Home news

Feb 06, 2019

The Potteries is inviting local people to a free event where they can learn more about a new innovative ‘Magic Table’ installed in the home.

On Thursday 7th February, from 2pm - 4pm, the team at The Potteries is welcoming the community to learn more about this special new addition to the home, which has been specifically designed to motivate the mind and inspire those living with dementia. 

The Magic Table, also known as Tovertafel,is made up of a series of interactive light animations that are projected onto a table. The residents can play games including catching butterflies, sweeping up leaves and throwing a beach ball, as well as completing nostalgic puzzles. 

Developed through ongoing PhD research, the Magic Table was engineered to stimulate both physical and cognitive activity, and encourage social interaction for people living with dementia. The games can be enjoyed by all ages and encourage intergenerational conversations and interactions. 

There will also bea live demonstration and the chance to try out the table, with cake and coffee available at the café throughout the event. Attendees are advised to book a space for the event in advance. 

Zita Turner, home manager at The Potteries, said: “We are really excited to be unveiling the Magic Table at The Potteries. It will make a great addition to the home and provide those living with dementia with a source of escapism and stimulation that they can enjoy together and with relatives. It’s been a real pleasure to see residents become more interactive with their friends and family, especially grandchildren. 

“People living with dementia can become passive as they struggle to interact with people and their surroundings, so we hope that the table will help encourage them to keep active and provide a fun activity for all.”

Mehdi Bedioui, co-founder of the Magic Table, added: “The Magic Table creates treasured moments with family members and carers. We know a care home where a 102-year-old resident plays with her two-year-old great granddaughter - creating invaluable memories for the family. The games have been designed to stimulate wonder and enjoyment and we hope the residents at The Potteries will get a lot of joy from using the table.”