GreenFields' sensory therapy evokes positive feelings, memories

She didn't speak; she was more of a hummer of no particular melody. But the moment the woman cradled the lifelike baby doll, she began to hum the familiar lullabies she sang long ago. This is the power of sensory stimulation therapy at GreenFields' Reflections Memory Support in Geneva. Eager to embrace the growing trend of sensory therapy to trigger positive emotions and recollections in people with memory loss, GreenFields dedicated space to a promising initiative, with extraordinary results.

"That was a huge breakthrough," said GreenFields Life Enrichment Manager Kat Schumpert of the resident's remarkable reaction to the doll. "The sensory program was a hit right away; we've had a dynamite response."

A year ago, with a goal to evoke pleasant feelings and memories by arousing the physical senses, staff members transformed unused areas into sensory "nooks," containing familiar items that residents can see, touch, smell and engage with as they please.

One nook includes the realistic dolls, baby powder, a bassinet and other nursery items; another displays a mural of a window overlooking Chicago, with potted plants and a bench built into the wall; and the third features Animatronic cats and a dog that respond to touch and verbal expression - a literal sensation not only with residents, but staff too, according to Schumpert.

Soon to come, a fourth nook will appeal to the many Cubs fans at GreenFields, complete with baseball paraphernalia, real ivy reminiscent of Wrigley Field, and other sports-related items.

According to Schumpert, each resident has a unique perception of the sensory nooks, but everyone appears happy to have them. "People seem less stressed, more talkative, especially when they're connecting with something familiar to them. Many have had children, pets, gardens … and many have lived in the city of Chicago. We get some great smiles and giggles, and hearing the memories that come out is really neat."

Items and themes chosen for the nooks are based on staff members' research into sensory therapy as well as knowledge of and interaction with individual residents. "All items are age-appropriate, stimulating to the senses, safe and recognizable."

Schumpert added that GreenFields hopes to expand the nooks into designated sensory rooms in the future.

Introduced in Europe in the 1960s, sensory therapy for those with memory loss has gained considerable steam in the U.S.

"It's an economical, non-pharmaceutical approach, and we have only scratched the surface," said Schumpert, noting advances in the field, such as virtual reality and other interactive technology. The method also borrows a page from the book of "snoezelen" (multisensory environments, founded in Holland, that provide tranquillity and relaxation by way of soothing light, sound, smell and touch). "That's what we're trying to emulate," said Schumpert, whose husband is from the Netherlands.

With an eye to the near future, as Baby Boomers retire and may be dealing with Alzheimer's disease and other dementias, Schumpert is heartened by the promise of sensory stimulation therapy. "This is a really big deal, and I think it's fantastic that GreenFields is taking the initiative to help those with memory loss reconnect this way."

GreenFields is an exceptional Life Care community offering a wonderful retirement lifestyle in an ideal location. GreenFields offers independent living, assisted living, memory support, rehabilitation and skilled nursing with the most comprehensive plan available for long-term care if ever needed. For information, visit www.GreenFieldsOfGeneva.org.