Sonas

Sonas is a therapeutic communication activity primarily for older people with dementia but also those with advanced Parkinson’s, some types of stroke and, occasionally, those who are experiencing extreme social isolation. It focuses on sensory stimulation in the belief that the senses are the gateways to communication, and is delivered through group and individual sessions.

The Sonas Group Session involves cognitive, sensory and social stimulation. There is an emphasis on abilities rather than disabilities. Structure and repetition are essential features of the programme, which is recorded on a CD/cassette. This fosters familiarity, confidence and an environment in which the person’s communicative potential is activated. Crucially, it enables the practitioner to have a complete focus on the participants.

SIMS (the Sonas Individual Multi-Sensory Session) is an adaptation of the Sonas Group Session for use on a one-to-one basis. Training in the use of SIMS is included in the Sonas Workshop.

There is also an individual session based only on music and touch, which provides a relaxing interactive environment and quality time for carer and client.

But Sonas goes far beyond the sessions. We encourage practitioners to extend the benefits to the broader care environment, thereby further enhancing the quality of lives of participants. Ours is an approach to care that is truly person-centred. Those who attend our workshops leave with the skills to carry out our programmes and an appreciation of the many ways in which people may communicate, particularly non-verbally.