Tara Fortune

Barróg, which means hug in Irish, is a wearable that promotes comfort, relaxation and active presence amongst individuals with Dementia. This product focuses on sensory stimulation through a weighted and carefully shaped memory-foam form, curating the sensation of being held and feeling safe, like a caring hug.

Within, there are scented pieces to gently relax the user as they embrace the knitted wool cover that holds a sense of familiarity and ease. This product is designed to reduce the unpleasant symptoms of sundowning syndrome, maintaining the individual's sense of control and competence in managing their experience and emotions.

Percussion pads sit within the padded form to encourage engagement through tactile and auditory contact. The shape is designed to encourage a specific use that mimics the somatic therapy approach of the butterfly tap. This is a proven practice of self-soothing and stress reduction through bilateral tapping exercises.