The Tover has had an instant social impact, creating an inclusive environment for residents with varying cognitive abilities. Brande’ Watras, Nurse Manager at Bethany Village, described a group sitting around the table, playing a game of soccer with their hands. “We found that some of the residents were encouraging their peers to play. It was incredible to witness the sense of accomplishment and purpose residents felt by helping their peers participate.”

These games, and the involvement of the staff, have brought residents together in remarkable ways as they can play one-on-one or in groups, with caregivers, or with family members.

These games, and the involvement of the staff, have brought residents together in remarkable ways as they can play one-on-one or in groups, with caregivers, or with family members.

“For grandchildren, it feels like a video game. They can pick it up quickly and engage with their family members through the Tover. It’s helping to facilitate connections that otherwise might not happen.”

The Tover has also been a springboard for activities to reach residents on a deeper level. One popular game has residents “rake” leaves on the projector table. Staff brought fallen leaves from outside to have residents see, touch and smell as they played the game, and asked questions inviting residents to share their memories and autumn experiences.

“We can ask questions along with each game and talk about their memories,” said Brande’. Their faces light up with recognition and the confidence of the players grows as they play the games and share memories.

Funding for the two Tovertafels at Bethany Village was made possible by Premier Health, the Mary Mikesell Foundation, Good Shepherd Lutheran Church-Cincinnati, the Dayton Rotary Foundation, Dayton Foundation and Brighter Tomorrow Foundation.

See more stories in Graceworks’ 2023 Annual Report: Remarkable People