...

Explore the Happiness Programme, HUG by Laugh and RITA

The Happiness Programme has been developed by Social Ability which blends interactive, sensory light technology with a guided program and training and support. Developed for people living with cognitive physical care needs, the projector, known as a Magic Table 360, offers meaningful and engaging activity. The activities are a collection of interactive games, quizzes, and mindful immersive content that are proving to be effective.

Happiness Programme in Gwent

The Happiness Programme at County Hospital from Social-Ability on Vimeo.

  • The Gwent Regional Partnership Board (GRPB) has provided funding to introduce the Happiness Programme across Gwent.
  • The GPRB Assistive Technology Programme team has been working with Social Ability to distribute and onboard organizations across Gwent.
  • Delivery of the devices commenced in August 2022, and the Happiness Programme is now up and running in health board locations, third-sector organizations, and social housing settings (mostly care homes) in the 5 Gwent local authorities.
  • A total of 143 devices have been delivered. 
  • Impact is being collated and monitored with early indications showing positive results.

Watch the online launch event for the Happiness Programme in Gwent here. Attendees heard an inspirational talk from rugby player Alix Popham about his dementia diagnosis and the Head for Change charity. Updates were provided on assistive technology in the region and the Happiness Programme rollout. Mike Sage from Dragons RFC discussed their community work and new partnership to develop content for the Happiness Programme. Attendees shared feedback and ideas for next steps including training, user groups, and case study videos. There was enthusiasm for further collaboration to maximize the impact of the Happiness Programme in supporting wellbeing across Gwent.

Happiness Programme Resources

Happiness Programme Support and Training

  • Happiness Programme set-up and training forms part of the onboarding process with each setting offered the same
  • If training is required, use the support guide above for more information or call - 01732 373035

AT Feedback / Impact Case Studies

Happiness Programme Impact / Outcomes

These are some of the Happiness Programme impacts listed on the My Improvement Network website:

Happiness Programme Feedback

"The Happiness programmes has encouraged residents to interact with each other leading to conversations that would not have happened. It is an excellent tool for using distracting techniques when residents become agitated." - Rowan House Nursing Home
...

HUG by LAUGH

HUG by LAUGH® (HUG) is a sensory device designed to bring people pleasure and comfort. The device has been designed by Cardiff Metropolitan University specifically for people living with Dementia but can be used by people with various conditions.  In Gwent, HUG is being tested in a range of different settings to test effectiveness. It has weighted arms and legs along with an optional beating heart within its soft body.  It can play personalised music that can be changed to a favourite playlist. The HUG "magic box" which provides the heartbeat and music runs from a rechargeable unit which is removed when washing. 

HUG by LAUGH in Gwent

  • The Gwent Regional Partnership funded the HUG by LAUGH introduction across the region in 2020
  • Gwent was one of the first areas in Wales to take delivery at the end of 2021
  • A HUG by LAUGH implementation group has been established to guide implementation, raise awareness and ensure fair distribution across Gwent
  • A HUG by LAUGH evaluation commenced in July 2022 in partnership with TEC Cymru

HUG by LAUGH Resources

HUG Training

Key Features of the HUG by LAUGH

  • Arms and legs are weighted to make the person holding it feel safe and secure
  • It has a beating heartbeat that is run on batteries this can be removed for easy washing
  • You can create a playlist that can be added to the HUG so the person can be comforted with their favourite songs along with the beating heart, so it feels realistic

HUG by LAUGH Benefits

  • Reduce the number of falls a user may have
  • Increase general well-being and mood
  • Increase in appetite
  • Communicate with others more frequently

HUG Feedback / Impact Case Studies

  • The Gwent RPB Assistive Technology programme welcomes feedback and case studies on AT devices and projects across Gwent, you can do this in two ways:

HUG by LAUGH Research

HUG Development Background (from HUG by LAUGH Website):
Residents with advanced dementia often face limited mobility and communication challenges, leading to isolation. The HUG project was initiated for a lady in the late stages of the disease who lacked interaction and warmth. The solution was a soft, cushion-like wearable called 'HUG'. It mimics a hug through weighted hands and feet and features a comforting fleece texture.

Designed with a simple child-like appearance, 'HUG' includes a rhythmic heartbeat simulation using digital technology. Sensors trigger music from speakers when the object is moved. 'HUG' had an immediate positive impact, as the resident snuggled into it, spoke words after weeks of silence, and exhibited improved well-being. Care staff noted fewer falls, renewed appetite, increased communication, and social interaction among residents. Over three months, the resident's hand condition improved, regaining finger mobility.

Further Research Information on HUG:

For further information regarding the research that has been undertaken for this project can be found by following this link: LAUGH Research Features Article - LAUGH Project

...

RITA

RITA, which stands for Reminiscence Interactive Therapy Activities has been developed by My Improvement Network. RITA technology aims to improve the care delivered to older people, those living with dementia, mental health conditions, acute brain injuries and learning difficulties to support them and reduce their agitation, isolation, depression and delirium.

RITA provides access to a range of meaningful activities through a touchscreen device and user-friendly interactive screens to blend entertainment with therapy and to assist patients (particularly with memory impairments) in recalling and sharing events from their past through listening to music, watching news reports of significant historic events, listening to war-time speeches, playing games and karaoke and watching films. RITA does not need to be connected to Wi-Fi as the applications and movies are saved locally, however, connecting the devices gives access to the use of the internet and video calling.

RITA in Gwent

  • RITA was introduced across Gwent in 2014 with the number of the devices growing to 200+ in 2022
  • Funding through the Gwent Regional Partnership has invested in RITA since 2019 working with all sectors to distribute RITA 
  • Types of RITA currently used across Gwent include ITU, Max and Mini
  • RITA devices are being used within hospitals, care homes and social housing settings across Gwent
  • A RITA Implementation Group is working to improve awareness, usage and sharing of good practices across Gwent
  • Aneurin Bevan University Health Board Royal Gwent Hospital Case Study (myimprovementnetwork.com)

RITA Resources

RITA Training

AT Feedback / Impact Case Studies

  • The Gwent RPB Assistive Technology programme welcomes feedback and case studies on AT devices and projects across Gwent, you can do this in two ways:

RITA Benefits

Whilst the primary purpose of RITA is to improve the quality of life and well-being, there are additional benefits and impacts listed on the My Improvement Network website:

  • Reduced hospital admissions
  • Reduction in the use of anti-psychotic and sleeping medication
  • Reduced Length of Stay (LOS)
  • Reduced delayed transfers of care
  • Significant improvement in patients with dementia who are unable to sleep
  • Supporting dignity, respect and well-being for patients at the end of life
  • Improved interaction between carers and patient, and relatives and patient
  • Reduced 1:1, 2:1 & 3:1 - High-cost care packages
  • Improved mood and well-being outcomes for patients and carers
  • Helps carers and family members to communicate more effectively with patients
  • Care System Impact | My Improvement Network
  • RITA empowering Integrated Care Systems (Video)

The [RITA] unit is brilliant in the way it can be wheeled from unit to unit and at a height that can be adjusted. It is fully packed with apps for all ages and abilities. Good to get residents of a certain age on technology, it will be greatly used and enjoyed by all.

Glaslyn Retirement Homes Ltd

We are currently using it [RITA] for the quiz feature, music and reminiscence aids. We have looked through all the programmes and there is definitely something for everyone. We have some ladies and gentlemen who spend more time in their room than others so we find that the ability to take it around and of course the tablet is fantastic.

Foxhunters Care Community

RITA is a fantastic tool to provide meaningful activities and promote interaction of our Residents and it gives them so much choice so that their interests can be fully explored.

Belmont House

RITA Apps and Content (Over 60 Options)

  • Delirium Toolkit
    • CAM ICU
    • DREAMS Delirium Rescue Pack
  • Communication
    • Show me where (non-verbal pain indication)
    • Hear Me (real-time translation)
    • Video calls via Zoom, Teams or Skype (if connected to the internet)
    • Communication Assistant Tool (CAT)
  • Entertainment Therapy
    • Movie Night (over 100 licenced movies)
    • Reminiscence
    • Relaxation & Sensory
    • Music
    • Jigsaw, painting, word search, crossword

Case Studies

Support Information

Get the Latest RITA News

The best way to keep up to date with RITA is through the My Improvement Network newsletter.  It contains the latest news, tips and case studies from other people using RITA across the UK.

AT Feedback / Impact Case Studies

  • The Gwent RPB Assistive Technology programme welcomes feedback and case studies on AT devices and projects across Gwent, you can do this in two ways: