At Villa at Terracina Grand, a memory care community located on the Terracina Senior Living campus in Naples, FL, the pursuit of joy, connection, and mental engagement is at the heart of everything we do. One of the most impactful ways that the community has enhanced the lives of memory care residents is through the innovative use of Tovertafel, an interactive gaming system specifically designed for people living with cognitive challenges such as dementia.

What is Tovertafel?

Tovertafel, which translates to "Magic Table" in Dutch, is a groundbreaking tool created to stimulate physical, cognitive, and social activity for children, adults with intellectual disabilities, and seniors with dementia. The device uses a ceiling-mounted projector to display interactive games onto a table or floor, creating an immersive experience that invites participants to engage through simple gestures. With over 40 different games, Tovertafel offers a wide variety of activities that cater to the diverse interests and abilities of all kinds of people.

Bringing Joy and Interaction to Memory Care

At Villa at Terracina Grand, Tovertafel has become more than just a game—it's a gateway to interaction, laughter, and connection. 

As noted by Mila S., life enrichment director at Villa at Terracina Grand, “Tovertafel games are an enjoyable way for our residents to engage with each other and their surroundings. What I appreciate most is how simple yet effective they are—using light and motion to create an interactive experience that doesn’t require much effort to participate in. It’s an easy entry point for residents, and the games provide just the right level of stimulation, which seems to bring out smiles and laughter. It’s clear the games are thoughtfully designed to be accessible, especially for those with mobility or cognitive challenges.”

One of the standout features of Tovertafel is its ability to bring together residents who might otherwise be reluctant to socialize. Mila shared that, “Many residents who are more reserved tend to open up and interact with others when the games are on. One resident, who typically doesn’t engage much in group settings, started to actively participate during the Tovertafel sessions. It gave them a way to connect with others without the pressure of a traditional conversation or activity. Another example is a resident who tends to be very nervous has shown improvement in their mood and demeanor after playing, particularly in games that involve animal pictures and sounds.”

The Impact of Tovertafel on Daily Life

Tovertafel has had a profound impact on the residents at Villa at Terracina Grand. Mila and other team members have observed noticeable improvements in residents' hand-eye coordination, cognitive function, and social engagement. The games are designed to be both challenging and rewarding, offering residents a sense of accomplishment as they complete each activity. 

“The interactive nature of the games seems to help improve hand-eye coordination, as residents often have to reach for or touch images projected on the table. In terms of cognitive function, some of the games encourage focus and memory, which I’ve noticed has a noticeable impact,” reflects Mila. 

Whether it's assembling a puzzle of familiar resident faces or identifying the sounds of different animals, Tovertafel provides a joyful and meaningful way for residents to stay mentally and physically active.

“Some residents are more hands-on,” Mila continues, “swiping or reaching for the images, while others may sit back and enjoy watching. It's fascinating how different residents approach the games, whether individually or in small groups. It’s always interesting to see how they adapt to the different activities, and there’s a sense of fun and curiosity involved in each session.”

Moreover, the positive effects of Tovertafel extend beyond the gaming sessions. Residents who participate often continue discussing the games, sharing their experiences, and even coming back later to watch others play. This continued interaction helps to strengthen bonds among residents and creates a warm, supportive community atmosphere.

A Family Affair

The benefits of Tovertafel are not limited to residents alone. Family members visiting their loved ones at Villa at Terracina Grand often join in the games, creating shared moments of joy and connection. 

The intergenerational appeal of Tovertafel allows families to engage with their loved ones in a fun and meaningful way, reinforcing the community’s focus on fostering a family-like environment.

“It's not just about the game itself; it's about the conversations and connections that happen naturally as people play together,” concludes Mila. Tovertafel is more than just a game—it's a tool that enhances the quality of life for those living with cognitive challenges, helping them to connect with others, stay engaged, and find purpose. 

If you’re interested in learning more about the Terracina Senior Living campus and the life enrichment programs, we invite you to visit the campus for a tour. Come experience our vibrant campus firsthand and see how residents thrive.