Taking a look at an old picture brings back great memories. As we go back to those memories while staring at the photograph we are holding, it tends to lead us to where we are today. For people suffering with dementia, however, this may not be the case. There seems to be confusion when it comes to binding the past with the present. In order to hold onto and allow them to share these memories, there are definitely a lot of things that will help. One is through memory books that are great for your loved ones living with dementia.
What are Memory Books?
Memory books are more than the regular photo albums where you place pictures that you have compiled from your trips, life’s celebrations, and other events. It also contains brief descriptions of such activities, which help a lot in bringing back memories for people with dementia.
How Do They Help Your Loved Ones?
The brief description is the key thing in a memory book. This is what your loved ones can refer to when they have questions about their identities, their family members and friends, and any other things they want to know about. Memory books are a great way to respond to questions that are looking for clearer answers for the ones you love. With this, you can easily let them remember a person they have forgotten, whether it is their children, grandchildren, or sibling.
How Effective is the Memory Book?
Aside from the things mentioned above, the memory book helps your loved one cope with behaviors and emotions that has been bothering them. They are easy to carry around, so whether they are living in their usual residence with someone to assist them with their needs, or they need to be moved to an assisted living community offering home health care, it is easy for them to bring the book along.
You can hand over the memory book to the team member who will take care of them, so that they can address any questions your loved ones have once they look back into these pictures. This means that your loved ones can just bring part of their identities wherever they go, and that there is an easy way to get all the muddy waters cleared if they have any doubts later.
What Should be Included in a Basic Memory Book?
You can make the book straightforward and basic. You can purchase a photo album or opt for a sturdy binder. Others use scrapbooks to place a photo or two on each page, with details underneath. The book can include an old photo from one’s childhood, workplace, and special events and milestones in their lives. You can also incorporate their interests and hobbies in it. If they have pets, you must also include their photos in the memory album. Photos of previous residences will also be a good inclusion.
Memory Books Encourage Social Interaction
This is one of the concerns you will have if they move in to a memory care facility. With a memory book in their hands, this should not be a problem at all. Your loved ones can use the book to share stories they can remember about these photographs, while others listen. This will also encourage others to start a conversation.
