Sensory Interactive Projectors: What are they and how do they support dementia care?
Sensory interactive projectors are systems that project images, light and movement onto any surface — tables, floors, walls or even ceilings. Their projections respond to movement or touch, so when someone reaches out, waves a hand or steps forward, the images react accordingly.
In memory care facilities, sensory interactive projectors are used to support engagement, gentle movement and emotional regulation. They can be helpful especially in moments where residents feel restless, disconnected or withdrawn.
How are sensory interactive projectors used in care homes?
Sensory interactive projectors are most effective when they’re integrated into everyday care routines. Some care teams use them during planned group sessions, and others use them as a method for sensory stimulation during personal moments like bath time or before meals.
Some interactive projectors are fixed in spaces such as sensory rooms and stations. Others are designed to be used in common areas. And there are even interactive projectors designed to be easily moved to each resident’s environment (which is particularly helpful for residents with late-stage dementia).
When used intentionally, sensory interactive projectors can contribute to calmer, happier and better-prepared care environments.
Also read: On the Tovertafel: “It’s beyond words the change that it’s made in the residents in dementia care”
What can sensory interactive projectors support?
Emotional regulation & sundowning
Changes in mood, restlessness, or irritability— often described within BPSD (Behavioural and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia)—are common in daily care. Interactive projections can offer a predictable focus point, helping channel energy and support emotional regulation.
Gentle movement
To combat inactivity, interactive projectors can offer physical activities for seniors, which invite natural movement like reaching or stepping in a natural, pressure-free way.
Social connection
As a dementia group activity, interactive projections create a common focus that lets everyone participate at their own pace. It facilitates social interaction for seniors, even when words are limited.
Activities of Daily Living (ADL)
Occupational therapy and dementia experts often look for ways to ease transitions. While projection does not replace care, it creates the right sensory conditions for smoother mealtime or dressing routines.
Choosing the best interactive projector for your care home
If you are a nursing home administrator or life enrichment director, you may wonder: what is the best interactive projector for my facility? Consider these factors:
- Is it designed for dementia care? Systems designed for general entertainment may not fit care settings well. Look for interactive projectors that are cognitively accessible and adaptable to different ability levels.
- Is it safe for care environments?Any technology in care homes should support resident safety, not add to the list of concerns. Consider: is the device safely out of reach? Can it stand daily use? Is it easy to maintain?
- Is it easy for care teams to use? With busy schedules and hectic routines, there’s no time for overly complicated tools. The right interactive projector should be intuitive and easy to use, so it can fit naturally into everyday routines. This way it will become part of regular care practice, not something saved for special occasions.
- Does it bring evidence-based benefits? Dementia care comes with serious challenges, so it’s important to choose solutions that are grounded in more than good intentions. When considering a sensory interactive projector, look for a system that is backed by research-based evidence, not just marketing claims.
Conclusion
While there are many options available in the market, the Tovertafel stands out as an interactive projector developed specifically for people living with dementia. It is designed to reduce signs of agitation in dementia, prevent burnout among care teams, bring joy through interactive dementia games, and create more positive care environments for everyone. Its effects are backed by scientific research with international care experts.
Would you like to see how these games for seniors with dementia can transform your facility? Lean more about the Tovertafel or get in touch with us to arrange an on-site demonstration and start improving your quality of care through play.