Freedom Village at Brandywine, a Life Care Services community, has introduced a powerful new tool that’s reshaping engagement for residents in skilled nursing and memory care.

The Happiness Program, an interactive light-based technology, is sparking joy, connection, and movement across the community.

Developed by UK-based Social-Ability, the Happiness Program was designed to promote movement, memory, and meaningful engagement.

The portable device projects sensory games and experiences onto any surface—transforming tables, bedsides, and common rooms into spaces of joy.

With over 140 motion-based games, YouTube integration, and sensory activities, it uses a portable projector to turn any surface into a vibrant, interactive play space, and it’s accessible to all residents — whether in group sessions, one-on-one engagement, or even bedside care.

Whether a resident wants to sweep virtual leaves, tap along to music, or racehorses, there’s something for everyone.

The first time Freedom Village at Brandywine saw the program was at the International Council on Active Aging.

“We were looking for something truly person-centered to support our Heartfelt Connections program — and this was it,” said Kim Ranck, Director of Community Life Services. “The Happiness Program was my favorite thing at the entire conference. What’s been so wonderful is seeing how it brings residents and staff together. It’s joyful, it’s meaningful, and it’s become something really special in our community.”

Supporting the Heartfelt Connections Approach

Heartfelt Connections – A Memory Care Program is the foundation of Life Care Services’ approach to dementia care. It’s built around a philosophy of person-centered engagement, preserving residents’ abilities and dignity by focusing on their individual life stories, preferences, and strengths.

The Happiness Program aligns directly with this ethos. Its flexible and customizable nature means staff can tailor activities to match each resident’s background — whether it’s a favorite song, a familiar game, or a simple sensory activity that evokes calm and joy. The technology makes it easy to deliver the kinds of meaningful moments Heartfelt Connections is designed to create. Freedom Village at Brandywine is the first Life Care Services community to utilize the Happiness Program at its community.

“There are so many options that we can always find the right activity for every resident. It’s accessible, inclusive, and helps me deliver truly person-centered care,” said Antwan Gaffney, Memory Care Manager.

Reaching Those Who Don’t Usually Join In

Introducing new technology in a senior living environment brings challenges—from staff confidence to reaching residents who typically don’t participate in activities.

One of the program’s most significant breakthroughs has been engaging residents who previously declined all activities.

Molly Storm, Activity Coordinator, explained: “We had one gentleman who didn’t want to engage in anything. I finally convinced him to try the Happiness Program once. Now, he can’t wait to play his sports games. He absolutely loves it.”

Staff also had concerns about how to reach residents nursed in bed or receiving end-of-life care. But the program’s portability made this possible, bringing meaningful one-to-one engagement to those who need it most.

“I’ve seen the Happiness Program used in both skilled nursing and memory care — and it just blossoms the residents,” said Trish Rank, Community Life Manager. “You can see a different light come out of them. We cheer, we celebrate high scores—residents and staff look forward to it.”

Watch a video on the Happiness Program: LCS freedom Village Brandywine Happiness Program testimonial

Freedom Village Brandywine is a continuing care retirement community in Pennsylvania, managed by Life Care Services. The community offers a full continuum of care, including independent living, assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing.