.jpg?bc=ffffff&h=525&w=1000&rev=82923e0022e64c12aeadc24ba9f34c25&hash=47452A0EE0D05DB58CE51FA32A97EC3F)
Visually impaired individuals primarily rely on auditory and tactile information processing, and that insufficient social interaction and stimulation can lead to passivity and reduced communication. To address this need, the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences of the Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) has collaborated with The Hong Kong Society for the Blind and The Kowloon Motor Bus Co. (1933) Ltd (KMB) to launch a project named “A Trip of Memory – An Innovative Cognitive Stimulation Training Using Good Old Times on Bus for Visually Impaired Elderly.” This project leverages the familiar environment of a bus journey, integrating storytelling and interactive activities to enhance social engagement, verbal communication skills, and executive function, ultimately promoting greater social integration for visually impaired elders.
The Hong Kong Society for the Blind upholds a people-oriented service philosophy and promotes diversity and inclusion to ensure that visually impaired individuals and the wider community can benefit together. In the project's initial phase, KMB generously contributed repurposed bus stop signage, cash boxes, and seats, serving as tactile and visually stimulating props for storytelling and interactive activities. Intern students from the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences of PolyU facilitated group sessions, guiding visually impaired elderly participants through engaging activities to enhance their social skills and verbal expression. These activities not only helped participants reminisce about past experiences but also offered valuable cognitive stimulation through touch and hearing, fostering social connections and combating cognitive decline.
In a media interview, Mr Tony Wong, Assistant Professor of Practice of the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences of PolyU, highlighted the project’s remarkable positive impact. Participants experienced significant improvement in cognitive ability and language expression while reliving fond memories in a pleasant environment. This collaborative project exceeded expectations by helping visually impaired elders, creatively repurposing discarded bus materials, and fostering a stronger sense of community.
The Hong Kong Society for the Blind expressed gratitude to PolyU and KMB, emphasising the vital role of interdisciplinary collaboration in the project's continued success. PolyU is dedicated to supporting visually impaired elders through innovative cognitive and social rehabilitation programmes.
Interview Replay (In Chinese Only):
