This product is developed in the framework of the graduation project (MSc) of M.D. de Groot to complete her study Industrial Design Technology at the Delft University of Technology. During this project, which was carried out at the company Barry Emons Aangepast Spelmateriaal B.V. (Adapted Activity Materials Barry Emons) 'snoezel' material is developed for demented elderly men. 'Snoezelen' is a term used for stimulating the senses of demented people in such a way that they experience a state of rest and safety. Starting from this restful state of being, attempts to stimulate the mind will be more successful. By stimulating the brain dementia is controllable to some extent.
Therefore a 'kussenbord' (cushion board) was developed for the demented man. It is a product with a soft base, a sort of pillow with a tactile value. This pillow also positions and stabilises the wooden underground on which various features are fixed. These features are aimed at the visual, auditive and tactile senses. Other elements aim to make the user curious and to stimulate activity.
An investigation into the attraction of the individual features showed good results with the demented people. Seven people gave a positive reaction to the tested features. Based on this investigation a choice was made for which features to be used on the boards.
Finally a product has been developed and manufactured with two exchangeable boards, both to be used on the same pillow.
More pictures of the material below
If you want to know more about Raymond Koopman as a developer of Snoezelequipment: Click Here