Memory Care: Programming & Support

For people with Alzheimer’s disease and their families, a remembered moment from the past is a gift. 1 in 10 adults 65+ have dementia; the rate rises to 1 in 3 for those age 85+. Behind these numbers are people in our communities. People who are living with dementia and people who are currently caring for someone with dementia.  Libraries are vital to a dementia friendly community because they provide access to resources, services, and programs for people living with dementia and their families.

Memory loss and confusion are the hallmarks of dementia and Alzheimer’s, but photographs, music, and memorabilia from the past can trigger memories and provide a bridge for caregivers and loved ones to communicate and connect.

What is a memory kit?

A memory kit is a box or bag filled with items and activities centered around a place, time, or theme that incorporate the senses. A decade-themed kit could contain famous photographs from a decade, a CD with music from the era, informational booklets with facts from that time, political buttons, or anything that evokes a sense of the time period. Kits can also be centered around activities such as cooking, outdoor recreation, music and dance, or world travel. Kits are made to help individuals with dementia or other cognitive impairments reminisce and create discussions with loved ones. These kits include a variety of hands-on activities to help promote mental and emotional stimulation.

What is in a memory kit?

Memory kits include activities for the individual surrounding the theme checked out. Activities will vary depending on topic but will center around the senses. They also include an informational sheet, which gives more detail about the kit itself, how to enhance the kit, and discussion questions.

How can libraries use memory kits?

Librarians and library staff are uniquely positioned to create memory kits because they have access to historical knowledge, and often memorabilia and media from the past. Some libraries have built a collection of memory kits for their users to check out, while others have developed programming that supports caregiver and family members in building their own kits. Here are some great examples of libraries that are serving their community’s seniors with memory kits.

Environmental improvements

Libraries can implement simple changes, such as creating clear signage and wayfinding, reducing noise levels, and providing comfortable seating areas. By doing so, they can help all library users – younger and older people alike – feel more at ease and comfortable while using the library.

Sources:

Superior Public Library

Memory Cafe Directory

Webjunction

Memory Cafes as Dementia Friendly Events

Libraries can offer engaging activities and programs that cater to people with dementia. For example: a Memory Cafe is a great way for people with dementia and their care partners socialize and connect with others in a safe and supportive environment. Given the accessibility libraries inherently hold, they are wonderful locations for Memory Cafes.

Guided Reminiscence

Reminiscence sessions can also be helpful for people with dementia, as they provide an opportunity to share memories and stories from the past. The extensive availability of materials on virtually any topic make libraries a natural location for conduct reminiscing sessions.

Kits for Caregivers

Supporting caregivers is just as important as supporting individuals with memory loss, such as Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Libraries can create kits which feature information, handouts, and brochures on caregiving, aging, Alzheimer’s disease, and dementia. Kits could contain DVDs, CDs, and coffee table books. The kits are meant to be an enjoyable reminisce activity for a caregiver to use with someone who has memory loss. Sample themes to consider could include “Singing with Elvis,” “Classic Comedy Shows,” and “Golden Broadway Musicals and Dance.”

Reading Programs

No matter your age, everyone enjoys being read to! Reading to individuals with memory loss, whether in a small group or individually, is an effective way to encourage engagement and conversation.

Benefits Of Reading

• Exercises your brain

• Reduces stress

• Improves sleep

• Increases emotional intelligence

• Increases tolerance for uncertainty

• Helps prevent age-related cognitive decline

Music Activities

Libraries feature music programs for individuals with memory loss such as music concerts and sing-alongs. For example: A library could host an annual holiday sing along at assisted living facilities each December.

Patrons with memory loss who cannot recall their child’s name can often relate and remember music from when they were growing up. Libraries have reported that patrons who were normally sedate began singing, tapping their toes, and having fun with the introduction of music.

Animal Therapy

Animals often forge a special connection with people who have dementia. You might have seen a resident pet at your local care or memory care facility. Facilities work with local therapy animal organizations or even hire pet coordinators. Libraries can work with therapy animal organizations and incorporate animals into their programs at facilities.

Libraries can purchase Memorable Pets or stuffed animals for their collections. Memorable Pets and stuffed animals provide loving comfort, a sense of security and purpose, and are a therapeutic tool for nurturing and play. The Memorable Pets were developed with input by geriatric specialists and have a lifelike weight and floppiness.

Fidget Quilts

Fidget quilts and aprons feature bells, buckles, buttons, ribbons, zippers, and any manipulative to relieve the stress associated with Alzheimer’s disease and engage fine motor skills. Libraries can partner with Friends of the library, sewing groups, or civic organizations to construct fidget quilts and aprons. Ask library staff and patrons to assist with the project.

Sources:

Librarians: Serving Patrons with Dementia

University of Wisconsin-Madison: Alzheimer's Disease Research Center