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Slide Notes


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9 theme ideas for memory boxes

Published on Nov 18, 2015

To stimulate memories for someone with dementia, first work out what items may hold special significance for that person. Did they play a sport? An instrument? Spend a lot of time in the kitchen? The garden? Then collect relevant items in one location - a memory box, so they're easy to pull out.

Have the person with dementia hold each item and encourage them to share what that object brings to mind. You can talk about how it feels and what memories they associate with it.

The possibilities for what you might place in a memory box are endless. Use your creativity to create a memory-stimulating collection of items customised specifically to the person with dementia.

The following slides may hopefully give you some ideas.

PRESENTATION OUTLINE

9 memory box themes

for people living with dementia

The Sports enthusiast

  • Match programmes
  • Cigarette cards
  • Cricket, tennis ball ...
  • Club rosette, scarf, hat ...
  • Sporting heroes photos
Photo by ca1951rr

The gardener

  • Seed packets
  • Horticultural Show certificates
  • Photos of previous gardens
  • Old gardening gloves
  • Dried flowers
Photo by Chiot's Run

the cook

  • Favourite recipes
  • Herbs and spices
  • Biscuit cutters
  • Packets of non-perishable items
  • Napkin, egg cup, timer ...
Photo by benderbending

The film buff

  • Photos of the stars
  • Cinema tickets
  • Packet of popcorn, favourite sweets
  • DVDs, videos, cd soundtracks
  • Posters

the animal lover

  • Photos of previous pets
  • Maps of loved walks
  • Ornaments of favourite breeds
  • Collars and identity tags
  • Pet toys
Photo by Joe Mud

the traveller

  • Map of the world
  • Train, plane tickets
  • Photos from trips
  • Letters sent on trips
  • Old passports
Photo by jack72237

the craftsperson

  • Handmade items
  • Knitting needles, wool, thread ...
  • Artist's paintbrush
  • Needlepoint, patchwork, felt ...
  • Crafting magazine, book
Photo by discorunt

the musician

  • Music scores
  • CDs
  • Concert tickets, programmes
  • Song books
  • A musical instrument
Photo by arquera

Memory Boxes

available from FIND SIGNAGE