The Ballamona Association for Mental Health (BAMH) has donated £4,262 to buy the new Voyager sensory machine for Gansey Unit, replacing the older model, which BAMH had also bought.

The Gansey Unit is part of the dementia care and support service in Southlands Resource Centre in Port St Mary.

The sensory equipment provided comprises of an interactive hurricane column, fibre optic curtain, projector, MP3 player and a mirror ball.

It is in the sensory room within Gansey Unit, which is designed to be a haven of calm and relaxation for residents and their visitors to sit and unwind.

The Voyager sensory machine provided by BAMH should create a calming and relaxing atmosphere.

The residents and their visitors can listen to gentle music, while watching the interactive hurricane column containing miniature polystyrene balls (resembling snow) which move and change colour.

Residents can also interact with the machine and change the column’s colour by using a large remote control.

Images such as butterflies and flowers can be projected on a wall, creating a soothing familiar image.

Fibre optic lights, tactile panels with various textures along with the mirror ball in conjunction with the music help to create a soothing environment.

The BAMH says that research has shown that sensory stimulation can have a significant effect on the wellbeing of people with dementia.

It adds that multisensory stimulation environments produce immediate positive effects on the behaviour and mood of people with dementia.

The room is open throughout the day.

The Ballamona Association for Mental Health was set up in 1966, when it was founded as the Ballamona Hospital League of Friends.

BAMH directors and members are all volunteers, committed to supporting and assisting those who have mental health problems.

Further information can be obtained from Mrs Mary Maylott, secretary, by telephoning 675833.