First in the Nation: Jupiter Medical Center Launces the Happiness Program for Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care

November 22, 2024 – Jupiter, FL –– Jupiter Medical Center is proud to be the first hospital in the nation to acquire the “Happiness Program,” a new interactive light projector aimed at enhancing the quality of life for patients with Alzheimer’s and Dementia.

This innovative program, which originated in the UK and was developed in collaboration with Social-Ability, enables patients at Jupiter Medical Center to engage in interactive games to enhance connections with caregivers and family members. The portable device projects light patterns that encourage movement through activities like popping bubbles and playing the piano, creating a vibrant, safe environment for individual or group enjoyment. Its versatility allows for projections on various surfaces, ensuring patients can engage comfortably wherever they feel at ease.

Based on the UK Happiness Program customer survey responses, the Happiness Program showed significant positive impacts on participants. Notably, the program facilitates a reduction in anxiety levels, and increases in social experiences, positive sensory experiences, and reported happiness levels, all of which correlate with numerous benefits, including improved physical, social, and cognitive activities. The Happiness Program may alleviate withdrawal symptoms and reduce dependence on anti-psychotic medications. It is designed to foster better relationships with care teams, friends, and family, enhancing participants’ social environments.

The Happiness Program was made possible through generous contributions from the Mirasol Foundation to Jupiter Medical Center’s Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care Program. With their support, Jupiter Medical Center was able to acquire the Happiness Program and can now provide this groundbreaking offering to dementia care and rehabilitation patients.

“We are thrilled to bring the Happiness Program to our patients,” said Jill Shutes, DNP, APRN, GNP-BC, NPD-BC, CAEd, Gerontological Clinical Coordinator at Jupiter Medical Center. “This initiative not only enriches the lives of those living with Alzheimer’s and dementia but also exemplifies our commitment to pioneering patient-centered care. We look forward to witnessing the positive transformations this program will bring.”

In addition, Jupiter Medical Center provides The Johnny and Terry Gray Alzheimer’s and Dementia Caregiver Support Program, aimed at enhancing the experience for patients and families affected by Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. This program offers extensive education, clinical co-management services, and emotional and social support for those navigating the challenging path of dementia.

For more information about Jupiter Medical Center or The Johnny and Terry Gray Alzheimer’s and Dementia Caregiver Support Program, visit jupitermed.com, call (561) 263-2234, or follow Jupiter Medical Center on Facebook and Instagram @jupitermedicalcenter or on Twitter @JupiterMedCtr.

ABOUT JUPITER MEDICAL CENTER

Rated #1 in the region for quality, safety, and patient experience, Jupiter Medical Center is the leading destination for world-class health care in Palm Beach County and across the Treasure Coast. Jupiter Medical Center’s state-of-the-art facilities and leading-edge technologies enable its award-winning physicians to provide a comprehensive continuum of inpatient and outpatient health care services. Jupiter Medical Center’s specialty centers of excellence include: comprehensive cancer care, cardiovascular care, orthopedics, neurosciences, and women’s and children’s services. For more information about Jupiter Medical Center, please call 561-263-2234 or visit www.jupitermed.com.

ABOUT SOCIAL-ABILITY

Social-Ability is a leading health care technology service provider whose mission is to make society happier. The Happiness Program is a first of a kind service that sparks laughter and happiness for everyone living with cognitive challenges, working together with innovative care providers across the UK. They’re working with many care groups across the UK and Ireland, including Barchester, Signature and more.

You can find out more about Social-Ability by visiting their website: www.social-ability.co.uk.