By Shelby Tuttle
According to the World Health Organization, dementia affects 55 million people worldwide, with numbers projected to rise significantly in the coming years. Despite extensive research, there is currently no cure for this debilitating condition. However, emerging evidence suggests that lifestyle factors, such as cognitive stimulation, can play a significant role in improving overall brain health.
For caregivers, attending to their loved ones with dementia can present a profound challenge. Often faced with limited resources and a lack of effective solutions, caregivers can experience frustration when it comes to their ability to provide meaningful support. In light of this, a company called Geri-Gadgets is looking to provide hope for seniors living with dementia and other cognitive issues — and their caregivers — by offering innovative products that provide the needed stimulation and comfort the condition often requires.
Founded by Angela Fairhurst, Geri-Gadgets is more than a business; it’s a heartfelt endeavor driven by a profound desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Angela’s journey with Geri-Gadgets began when her own mother was diagnosed with Lewy Body dementia. Witnessing her mother’s daily struggles ignited her determination to seek innovative solutions that could provide comfort, stimulation, and joy to seniors like her mother, who often felt isolated and disconnected from their surroundings.
Angela embarked on a mission to create a therapeutic, sensory-stimulating product tailored specifically for this vulnerable demographic. She endeavored not only to develop products that addressed the unique needs of seniors with dementia but to also help them experience a sense of engagement, empowerment, and dignity.
Geri Gadgets are simple and effective, providing safe and engaging activities suitable for all stages of cognitive decline, that also bring fun, joy, and quality of life to the daily grind of caregiving. Made of high-quality silicone, each “gadget” provides both mental stimulation and a means to occupy hands. Textured pieces, shape sorters and sensory buckets all provide versatile applications for users.
Fairhurst notes that the products are highly durable and built to withstand continuous use, making them more sustainable in comparison to cheaper alternatives that can quickly fall apart.
“They are meticulously crafted with the utmost care and attention to detail, meeting the highest standards of safety and effectiveness,” she says.
Geri Gadgets are also machine washable and easy to clean, an important factor in an item that is handled repeatedly.
“Caregivers can rest assured knowing that there’s no risk if someone puts the objects in their mouth,” says Fairhurst. “They’re nearly effortless to clean and maintain, which offers caregivers a certain peace of mind.”
Geri-Gadgets boasts remarkable versatility. They allow loved ones to engage and bond with family members and leverage the therapeutic properties of silicone that promote cognitive stimulation, comfort, engagement, relaxation, improve focus and behaviors, and enhance overall well-being. Notably, the silicone buckets have redefined sensory engagement for individuals grappling with sensory deprivation, providing a secure and soothing outlet for tactile stimulation. The containers seamlessly integrate into the interactive experience.
As Geri-Gadgets continues to expand its reach, Fairhurst remains steadfast in her mission to provide comfort, joy, and empowerment to seniors and individuals facing sensory challenges. With an ever-growing portfolio of innovative products and a deep-seated commitment to making a difference, Geri-Gadgets is poised to lead the way in revolutionizing care for generations to come.
