Newark Hospital patients benefit from charity donation

Patients at Newark Hospital are benefiting from the use of touchscreen devices that help reduce social isolation and improve wellbeing.

The Sherwood Forest Hospitals Charity recently funded three Reminiscence Interactive Therapy Activity (RITA) devices, which enable patients to do a wide range of interactive activities on their own or with nurses, therapists or carers. The project was supported by the annual grant donation from the Magnus Charity.

The devices enable patients to reminisce through a range of activities such as listening to relaxation music and famous speeches, watching BBC archive clips and full-length movies, looking at photos and playing interactive games.

Evidence suggests that the use of reminiscence therapy is linked to reducing isolation, depression and behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia, and helping to calm distressed or anxious patients.

Evidence shows the use of the RITA devices can help reduce falls, shorten the length of hospital stays and reduce re-admissions.

Leanne Minett, Matron for Enhanced Patient Observations, said: “Following a successful trial at King’s Mill, we are very grateful that the charity has provided devices that will benefit our patients at Newark. They promote interaction between patients, their families and staff, helping us to get to know patients better and also increase their confidence.”

Patients are encouraged to ‘Ask for Newark’ at the point of referral with their GP or when speaking to their hospital team to check whether they could benefit from the expanded range of services now available at Newark Hospital.

To donate to the charity, please visit our webpage.