Grant Provides Video Games to Engage Clients at The Caring Place
Think video games are just for kids and young adults? Think again!
This year Columbia County Community Foundation (CCCF) made a grant to The Caring Place of Magnolia to purchase Wii game consoles to be used by clients with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.
“It’s a good way for their clients to exercise without too much exertion,” explained CCCF Executive Director Janet Rider-Babbitt. “With a Wii game, you can do as little or as much as you want.”
“Everyone’s favorite game is bowling,” said Barbara Lewis, director of the adult respite program, which provides a stimulating and engaging environment for people with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia while allowing their primary caregivers a chance to rest and recharge.
“The willingness of these folks to participate in something new warms your heart,” said Lewis. “We get a lot of laughs out of it. It’s fun!” The patients enjoy learning games that their grandchildren also like to play, and the Wii helps to improve their hand-eye coordination and provide mental stimulation.
At its most basic level, The Caring Place is about serving and engaging people who are often overlooked, Lewis noted. “So many programs are geared toward kids, but our community is everyone—we’re not just children. We’ve got to care for the whole community.”