Children from Little Peeps Nursery joined residents at the care home to explore the Happiness Programme’s interactive light therapy, which projects over 200 engaging games and activities onto tables, floors and walls. From popping colourful digital bubbles and sweeping virtual autumn leaves to playing piano keys, colouring, singing karaoke, and enjoying bingo and quizzes, the technology sparked playful interactions that brought  generations together, from age 3 to 83.

This event is part of a broader partnership between Social-Ability and Cheadle Manor, which will see the Happiness Programme introduced throughout the care home to improve the lives of people living with dementia. The programme offers tailored experiences designed to stimulate cognition, reduce anxiety and encourage social interaction. Results from care homes already using the Happiness Programme include 83% of residents showing reduced signs of anxiety and distress, an 18% decrease in antipsychotic medication use, and a 27% improvement in hydration and nutrition.

With nearly one million people in the UK currently living with dementia and numbers expected to rise to 1.6 million by 2040, new approaches to care are increasingly important. For many people living with dementia, antipsychotic medication is often prescribed to manage changes such as aggression. Initiatives like the Happiness Programme offer a vital alternative by providing fresh, meaningful activities that engage the senses and spark joy. They also create new opportunities for visitors, including children, to connect confidently with residents.

John Ramsay, managing director and co-founder of Social-Ability, said: 'Care homes like Cheadle Manor are doing something truly special by creating meaningful moments that uplift and unite people living with dementia. With the right support and resources, those with dementia can experience a renewed sense of purpose and happiness every day. By gently engaging the senses in a safe, familiar environment, light-based activities can awaken memories, brighten moods, and genuine engagement.

'The Happiness Programme helps break down barriers, opening new pathways for people with dementia to reconnect with carers, loved ones, visitors and even young children. This session with Little Peeps Nursery beautifully demonstrated that. Rooted in empathy, stimulation, and authentic human interaction, we’re proud to partner with Cheadle Manor to bring greater dignity and warmth to dementia care.'

Sammy Jacklin, senior wellbeing coordinator at Cheadle Manor added: 'It was wonderful to work with Social Ability and Little Peeps during Dementia Action Week and witness the incredible impact of the Happiness Programme. Not only did it bring joy within our dementia community, but it also created a positive atmosphere throughout the wider home. It’s always heartwarming to see people of all ages engaging, interacting and enjoying each other’s company, and the light therapy truly helped facilitate those connections, making it a meaningful experience for everyone involved regardless of their age.'