Page 46 - Issue 112 May-June 2021

46 Assisted-living facilities can turn to play therapy as one such method to improve their residents’ wellbeing. Play therapy is remarkably effective in activating social behaviours and enabling those who may typically struggle to communicate, to connect with others and their surroundings. The benefits of play therapy Play therapy encompasses therapeutic activities and games that trigger positive reactions and emotional comfort whilst alleviating negative emotions. In fact, research shows that play therapy activities are exceptionally beneficial for those with special educational needs as they improve social skills, re-build self-esteem, and increase positivity while also reducing ■ Play involving interactive light projection. negative emotions like anger, fear and sadness. Therefore, play therapy could also be particularly effective in releasing any anxious feelings that they are likely to be experiencing during this uncertain period. In addition, play therapy is a highly effective way to support physical wellbeing as it encourages movement and exercise during the activities. The exercise involved in various play therapy activities helps adults with special educational needs to keep their immune systems strong and healthy whilst also causing them to release endorphins which leave them feeling upbeat and optimistic. Although any form of play and social interaction can deliver these benefits, play therapy-based technology that involves interactive light projection games are some of the most effective to utilise during the pandemic. This is because the projected light animations used in the technology allow for a contactless element, making it a very safe and hygienic form of play. Importantly, users can play without risking the transmission of the virus and carers can simply wipe down the table or surface used beforehand and afterwards to disinfect and ensure users’ health is protected. By incorporating these aspects of play therapy into daily or weekly routines, carers and relatives can protect the mental health of those with special educational needs, and enhance their quality of life in a way that does not encourage the virus to spread or put vulnerable residents in physical danger. SEN112 senmagazine.co.uk Play