Last week, retirement community operator LifeCare Residences welcomed guests, including the Mayor of Dorchester to unveil a new tool to help tackle dementia.

Councillor Susie Hosford was invited to the company’s Somerleigh Court development in Dorchester to celebrate the unveiling the tool, the Tovertafel (Magic Table).

Developed in the Netherlands specifically for people with dementia, the Magic Table is new to the UK. The tool consists of a portable box which can be hung from the ceiling, projecting interactive images on to any surface below.

Through a series of interactive light games, the Magic Table stimulates both physical and cognitive activity, whilst encouraging social interaction – providing new way for residents to interact with each other, as well as family members and staff, creating happy memories.

Graham Oakes, Somerleigh Court manager, said: "As soon as we saw the Magic Table being demonstrated, we knew that we had to get one and are very pleased that we did.

"It is already very popular as it is easy for everyone to use, with residents, family members and staff all being able to take part in an activity together that brings a smile to everyone’s face. As part of a wider initiative to enhance the dementia unit at the development, we are delighted to be among the first retirement living communities in the UK to embrace this innovation.”