Juggles Tiles are expressly designed as a creative product for people living with later stages of dementia. It is designed for satisfying success, and most importantly, independent use. The person can be creative whenever and however they desire, with no need for supervision once they have initiated engagement.
It is not an uncommon occurrence for a person with dementia to be told they are wrong. ‘Juggle Tiles’ aims to create a product where the person’s choices are always right. Whatever the pattern they create, it can look appealing, but if they would like to change their mind, the Tiles are easily moved within the frame.
Juggle Tiles are a cross between a mosaic artpiece and a jigsaw, albeit one with no wrong combination of Tiles. The Tiles are laid in a frame, which hold the them in place and creates the appearance of a window. All the Tiles have pictures with vibrant appealing colours, such as a garden view or a lead light window, or a geometric design. Familiar plants and animals have been selected which can inspire reminiscence. and be used for quiz-style games, or even be used a building blocks.
The tiles are easily manipulated and are held in a frame which can be angled for use in bed or in a chair.
They are water-resistant to allow for disinfecting.
It is hoped that having something enjoyable and engaging to do, day or night, might reduce the risk or Behaviours of Concern and the subsequent dehumanising employment of restraint. Juggle Tiles may prove useful in Behaviour Support Planning.
Styles Available at first launch at the Australian Recreational Therapy Association conference Parramatta in September 2023 include:
GEOMETRIC
Country landscape garden (plus jigsaw format)
Flower garden
NATIVE garden
LEADLIGHT window
New ideas are being considered, including timber and soft cloth form quilt and crochet rug designs. Other new design ideas can be considered.
Judy is happy to receive emails from Recreation Activity Officers and other users of the product who would like to offer feedback or new ideas.
