RITA
Reminiscence and Interactive Therapy Activities
RITA is a cognitive and activity therapy for those suffering from dementia, brain injury or other causes of mental disability.
RITA can be used in hospital, residential homes and in the community. Using sound recordings, photographs, film, music, and song to encourage memories, interaction and movement, RITA can be tailored to suit individuals. It can be used by professional staff, volunteers, family and friends.
Two local nurses, Tina Cunningham and Christianne Rennie, have led a fantastically effective fundraising campaign and have raised thousands of pounds to provide RITA equipment and training for the hospital and residential home.
They continue to fundraise for more equipment and training so that RITA can be made available for use in the community. Islay Connections is proud to support Tina and Christianne’s RITA project and very pleased that they have joined us as trustees.
RITA IS LEARNING GAELIC!
A new digital lifeline is coming to Islay. The Museum of Islay Life and ICCI have teamed up to bring Gaelic videos and historic images straight into the community — from Islay Hospital to Gortanvogie Care Home. Through the RITA devices, these memories of local heritage are set to spark conversations, comfort, and connection, especially for those living with dementia.
The project, supported by My Improvement Network, is making RITA devices more ‘Islay-friendly’ than ever before. By showcasing local history in both images and the Gaelic language, the aim is to spark happy memories, encourage storytelling, and create moments of calm. For families and carers, it’s also about bringing out the best in loved ones — reminding the community that heritage can be a powerful tool for wellbeing.
RITA — short for ‘Reminiscence/Rehabilitation Interactive Therapy Activities’ — has already been proven to support people with cognitive impairments across the UK. Now, with an Islay twist, it’s hoped the technology will feel closer to home for those who use it most.
The Museum of Islay Life supplied the archive material, with ICCI ensuring the stories and videos reflect the island’s rich Gaelic heritage. The content will soon be available across RITA devices in the community, providing an accessible way for residents to engage with the past.
This is just the beginning — more locally inspired digital content could follow, keeping heritage alive while strengthening wellbeing in the present.
