About Us
The Grand Baby Project aims to improve the lives of those living with dementia through the innovative use of dementia therapy dolls. Founded by Tonja Moon, The Grand Baby Project is a 501 (3)(c) nonprofit that honors her Grandmother Ruby’s resilient journey to
finding inner peace in the chaos of living with dementia. “My grandmother loved designer clothes, designer dogs, bold jewelry and vanilla ice cream, but most of all she loved her grandbabies!"
Through our powerful collaboration with Dementia Engagement Strategies (DES), The Grand Baby Project provides the foundational therapy dolls and passionate advocacy for their use, while DES offers the critical training and certification necessary to implement this therapy effectively. This synergy ensures that caregivers are not only equipped with the tools they need but are also empowered with the knowledge and skills to make a real difference in the lives of those they care for.
Welcome
The Transformative Power of Dementia Doll Therapy
Research into Dementia Doll Therapy has illuminated its profound impact on individuals with dementia, highlighting several key benefits:
Emotional Well Being
Emotional Well Benefits
Studies have consistently shown that engaging with therapy dolls can evoke feelings of happiness, peace, and contentment among individuals with dementia, reducing agitation and distress.
Cognitive Stimulation
Cognitive Stimulation Benefits
The process of caring for a doll can stimulate memories and cognitive functions, particularly in those with a history of nurturing roles.
Social Engagement
Social Engagement Benefits
Doll therapy encourages interaction with caregivers and peers fostering a sense of connection and reduced feelings of isolation.
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Behavioral Adjustment
Behavioral Benefits
Engaging with dolls has been linked to a reduction in challenging behaviors, providing a non-pharmacologic alternative to managing symptoms of dementia.
Sense of Purpose
Sense of Purpose Benefits
Doll Therapy can give individuals a sense of purpose and meaning, enhancing their quality of life and overall well-being.
Partnerships with a Purpose
The Grand Baby Project is proud to be at the forefront of implementing Dementia Doll Therapy (DES), backed by research and a deep understanding of its potential to transform lives. Our partnership with Dementia Engagement Strategies (DES) ensures that this powerful tool is not only accessible but delivered with the highest standard of care and expertise. Together, we have delivered more dementia therapy dolls and trained more caregivers than all of the research combined worldwide.
The Unique Charm of The Grand Baby Project Dolls
At The Grand Baby Project, our dolls are not just toys; they are carefully crafted companion tools designed to bring comfort, peace and purpose to those living with dementia. Each doll is a testament to our commitment to quality, detail, and the therapeutic power of tactile and emotional connection. Here's what makes our dolls so special and unique:
Size and Proportions: Perfectly sized to mimic the comforting size and presence of a real baby, our dolls are designed to be easily cradled and cuddled, promoting a sense of security and warmth.
Facial Expressions: With expressive eyes and a range of facial expressions, each doll has its own personality, inviting a deep emotional bond and sparking moments of joy and recognition.
Tactile Stimulation: Crafted from soft silicone, our dolls offer a tactile experience that is both soothing and safe. The silicone is gentle on the skin, reducing the risk of skin tears, making them ideal for delicate, aging skin.
Expressive Eyes: The eyes of our dolls are designed to be expressive and engaging, yet we've consciously decided against the inclusion of eyelashes. This thoughtful detail minimizes the risk of "picking" behavior, common among individuals living with dementia, ensuring a safer and more serene interaction.
Hair and Hygiene: In the interest of hygiene and ease of care, our dolls are created without hair. This decision not only simplifies maintenance but also ensures the dolls remain as sanitary as possible for their companions.
Skin Details: The skin of each doll is a marvel of design, featuring the softness, wrinkles, and chubby cheeks reminiscent of a real baby. These details not only enhance the doll's lifelike appearance but also encourage gentle, nurturing interactions.
Sensory Experience: Beyond the visual and tactile, our dolls are designed to evoke the essence of caring for a real infant. The softness of their skin and the subtle scent designed to mimic that of a newborn, combine to create a multisensory experience that is both comforting and engaging.
In every detail, from their size and expressions to the sensory stimulating clothes they wear, The Grand Baby Project dolls stand apart as unique and therapeutic companions. To ensure inclusion, we offer a variety of demographics so that you can customize the experience for your loved one.
Individual Ordering
Customized Dolls for Loved Ones: Each doll can be personalized to create a deeper, more meaningful connection by matching ethnicities and gender. This customization ensures that your loved one receives not just a doll, but a companion that resonates with them on a personal level.
Ordering For Senior Care Communities
We recognize the profound impact these dolls can have on PWD, so we offer special arrangements for Senior Care Communities to introduce dementia doll therapy on a larger scale.
In partnership with DES, we offer our comprehensive Delivery Specialist Training for your caregiving team. Furthermore, with our unique Healthcare Partnership Program, the cost of a doll will never interfere with the opportunity for every resident to experience the therapeutic benefits of our therapy dolls.
Join Us in Making a Difference
Support the Grand Baby Project Today
Donate: Your financial support is crucial. It allows us to develop and distribute our unique therapy dolls, provide training for caregivers, and conduct research to further validate the effectiveness of doll therapy. Every donation, no matter the size, makes a significant impact.
Volunteer: Whether you have a few hours or can commit regularly, your time and talents can make a real difference, from assisting with events to spreading awareness.
Fundraising: Become an advocate by organizing fundraising events, from bake sales to charity runs in your community. Your efforts will help raise the vital funds needed to continue our mission and spread the word about the value of dementia doll therapy.
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Join us in bringing comfort, joy, peace and purpose to those living with dementia. Your involvement could change lives. Let's make a difference, together, one cuddle at a time!
If you are interested in learning more about bringing the healing power of Dementia Doll Therapy to your residents residing in a Senior Care Community please complete our Community Profile Sheet and we will be in touch promptly!