New dementia items will improve patient experience on Llanelli Older Adult Mental Health Ward

Thanks to donations, Hywel Dda Health Charities, the official charity of Hywel Dda University Health Board, has been able to fund items worth over £1,500 to help improve patient experience on Bryngolau Ward at Prince Philip Hospital.

Bryngolau Ward provides specialist mental health care and services for older adults at Prince Philip Hospital.

The NHS charity funded puzzles, clocks, wall murals, menu boards and other sensory items.

Emma Dobson, Older Adult Mental Health Clinical Lead Occupational Therapist, said: “We’re incredibly grateful that charitable funds have allowed us to purchase these items. The new range of equipment and resources will empower nursing and occupational therapy staff on Bryngolau Ward to deliver an enhanced patient experience.

“We’ve been able to purchase a pictorial menu board and dining room mural which are designed to create a familiar and comforting atmosphere that encourages social interaction. Displaying the menu with both images and text on the board supports orientation for individuals, while the overall dining room décor can also help stimulate appetite.

“The day and calendar clocks will help individuals keep track of time, date and time whilst promoting independence. These have replaced the existing clocks that were challenging to read and did not display the day and date.

“We’ve also purchased sensory items such as a Fiddle Muff Comforter and Perfect Petzzz. These items help calm agitated hands, improve circulation through hand movements, provide a focal point for affection and reduce the potential for repetitive behaviours through distraction.

“The games and activities purchased are designed for individuals with cognitive loss and can be both fun and engaging. For example, completing puzzles can gently stimulate the brain, enhance visual perception and offer a sense of satisfaction and pride upon completion.”

Nicola Llewelyn, Head of Hywel Dda Health Charities, the official charity of Hywel Dda University Health Board, said: “The support of our local communities enables us to provide services over and above what the NHS can provide in the three counties of Hywel Dda and we are extremely grateful for every donation we receive.”