A CARE home has invested in a 'magic table' to help provide physical and emotional stimulation for dementia patients.

A projection device is ceiling-mounted in one of the dementia suites in Elwick Grange, Hartlepool and uses game technology and infrared sensors to project on to a table.

The technology reacts to hand and arm movements, enabling residents to 'touch' flowers, 'pop' bubbles and 'catch' fish through colourful light.

Wendy Winspear, deputy manager at Elwick Grange, said:“Our extensive experience of such care has shown that a common symptom of Dementia is apathy and physical inactivity.

“The Magic Table has really enhanced overall levels of social interaction throughout the home, with residents naturally being drawn over to it, including those who have traditionally been quite detached or uncommunicative. Witnessing pure pleasure in their faces and seeing inter-generational play when families visit with grandchildren, has been magical to see and we’re delighted that we’ve been able to install such technology.”