At the opening of the Memory Technology Resource Room (MTRR) were, from left, Aisling Flynn, occupational therapist, MTRR; Marie Hayes, senior occupational therapist, St Mary’s Rehab Mullingar, Dr Orla Dolan, senior occupational therapist, Psychiatry of Later Life and Gavin Von Mollendorff, Interim occupational therapy manager Longford/Westmeath.

HSE’s new resource for people with memory difficulties

Eilís Ryan

Published: Wed 17 Jul 2019, 4:29 PM

A new memory resource room has been launched in the occupational therapy department at Mullingar Primary Care Centre.

Officially opened on July 1, the room showcases a wide variety of ‘assistive technologies’ and supports for those with memory difficulties.

Its base at the Primary Care Centre is a temporary location until a more permanent base can be found.

Serving residents of Longford and Westmeath, the service started January 2019.

Memory Technology Resource Rooms are for people with memory difficulties (including dementia), their families, carers and healthcare professionals who would like to know more about products and devices which can help manage difficulties.

Supporting people with memory difficulties to continue engaging in daily tasks has a hugely positive impact on maintaining their independence and improves quality of life.

The room has a considerable range of assistive technology that can help with daily memory functioning ranging from low tech to high tech items including orientation clocks, safety devices, communication aids, reminders and sensory equipment.

The occupational therapist will meet with the individual and/or their family by appointment. This allows for an informal assessment into the person’s current activities of daily living. The occupational therapist will then advise of suitable equipment and supplier details. Advice will also be provided for additional support services in the locality.

The room was opened by Gavin Von Mollendorff, interim occupational therapy manager Longford/Westmeath.

Occupational therapist Aisling Flynn said: “Since opening the MTRR in January, feedback has been positive.

“The service has seen referrals from both Longford and Westmeath. Both people with memory difficulties and their carers/family have expressed that the information provided has been useful in their daily lives. We are keen to continue to develop and publicise the service.

“It is clear that this is a valuable service and since opening there has been high demand.’’

People with memory difficulties, including dementia, and their family members can arrange to visit the memory technology resource room free of charge.

Visits are by appointment only through the occupational therapist in the MTRR, Aisling Flynn at 086-6076879.