Creating Memory Books for People with Dementia

Originally posted in the Bambu Care Champions community.

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Memory books provide a visual and textual record of a person's personal life history.

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Memory books can be used as a:

• Reminiscence tool
• Conversation starter
• Memory cue
• Storytelling

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What's in a memory book?

• Meaningful cover photo
• Photos related to the person's personal story
• Simple phrase or sentence to describe each photo (in first person)
• Place to write notes

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Materials to make a memory book: 

• 3-ring binder (this could also be a photo album)
• Non-glare page protectors
• White computer paper
• Use black large-print black lettering (sans serif font) to print phrases/sentences on the paper
• Meaningful photos
• Pages for notes

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Topics you can include:

• Family
• Key life events
• Personality traits
• Education
• Religious/Spiritual
• Favorite foods
• Hobbies
• Family pets
• Travel locations
• Accomplishments / Awards
• Clubs / Organizations
• Military history
• Political involvement
• Favorite music
• Favorite movies
• Favorite books
  

*this is not a complete list
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Important: Never use a memory book to quiz your partner!

For example, do not say, "Do you remember the cat's name?" Instead say something like, "That is a cute cat! Look at its big eyes!"

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Example memory book pages:‍

For early access to more content like this, considering joining us in the community! It's free :)