Sensory Aprons Bring Comfort to Dementia Patients in Sakha's Care Homes

A new project in the Republic of Sakha is helping elderly people with dementia through sensory aprons. These specially designed garments, similar to those found in a classroom setting, improve fine motor skills and stimulate brain activity. The initiative began with a master class led by Natalia Pakhomova, director of the Republican Comprehensive Center for Social Services (RCKSO).

The idea for the sensory aprons came from Pakhomova's personal experience. She developed the concept to support dementia patients, focusing on calming colours and shallow pockets to reduce anxiety. The aprons encourage gentle hand movements, aiding both physical coordination and mental engagement.

The first master class took place recently in the RCKSO's 'Forget-me-not' room. Social workers, department heads, and representatives from various institutions attended. Participants sewed their own aprons during the session and plan to distribute them to relatives and wards.

Liya Novogodina, head of the first department of home social services, praised the method as practical and effective. She intends to introduce it into daily care routines. Zhanna Kondrashova, a social worker, also shared plans to expand the idea by creating sensory blankets for her ward.

Further master classes will be held in the same 'Forget-me-not' space, ensuring more caregivers can learn the technique.

The sensory aprons offer a simple yet effective way to support dementia patients. With plans to hold more workshops, the project aims to reach more caregivers across the republic. The method's success will depend on its adoption in daily social care practices.