A new world of happiness opens at Boyle Library
Checking out a game of ‘virtual football’ on the ‘Magic Table’ following the launch of ‘The Happiness Programme’ in Boyle Library.
A new interactive light projector to provide inclusive, sensory stimulation has been launched at Boyle Library.
Provided in Boyle thanks to Dormant Accounts funding from the Department of Rural and Community Development, the projector is designed by Social-Ability and manufactured in the UK.
The Happiness Programme uses interactive games to connect library users with each other. Research shows the concept improves the wellbeing of people living with dementia and other cognitive challenges.
Using interactive light projections, ‘The Happiness Programme’, which can be played independently or in a group, stimulates movement by inviting participants to take part in all sorts of different fun activities.
Among the activities are popping bubbles, playing the piano, colouring in pictures, sweeping leaves, or interacting playfully with fish. Games are rich in colour, movement, and detail, and allow people of all ages to play in a safe and comfortable environment.
The Happiness Programme is portable so it can be used wherever those using it feel most comfortable to do so. It can be projected onto floors, ceiling and walls and allows for a range of games that change seasonally.
The programme covers 14 different categories, so there will always be something new for service users to try. Its portability also means the library will also have the option to bring the projector to various outreach and community events.
Speaking at the launch, Leas Cathaoirleach of Roscommon County Council Cllr John Cummins commended library staff and the many stakeholders who have collaborated to ensure delivery of the programme:
“I am thrilled to announce the distribution of the Happiness Programme across the local library service here in Boyle. It is fantastic to see an investment of this size to reach the most isolated in society and improve wellbeing.
“The Happiness Programme will progress the mission of our library service in sparking laughter and happiness, not just here in Roscommon but nationwide. I look forward to hearing the wonderful stories and care outcomes that are achieved through the Happiness Programme which can make a real difference in people’s lives and those of their families,” said Cllr. Cummins.
Social-Ability is a leading health care technology service provider whose mission is to make society happier. The Happiness Programme is a first of a kind service that sparks laughter and happiness for everyone living with cognitive challenges.
Social-Ability works together with innovative care providers and libraries across the UK and Ireland.
Find out more about Social-Ability by visiting their website: www.social-ability.co.uk.
