Program Idea 7: Staying Connected for Adults with Memory Issues

Title: Staying Connected for Adults with Memory Issues

Description:

Drop-In Centre for People needing Memory Care.

Potential Audiences:

1. Individuals with Memory Issues including Dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Aphasia.
   1. Caregivers
      1. Family Members
      1. Healthcare Professionals including doctors, nurses, social workers, and therapists.
      1. Community Organizations and Volunteers
      1. General Public

Goal:

Create a schedule friendly regular weekly day or two for visits by individual with their friends, caregivers, independently, or in groups from their residential facilities.

Length:

4 hours with a library worker concierge to recommend books, activities or toys and games.

Agenda:

Pretty Open-ended.  The Drop-In Concierge engages with attendees and offers conversation, advice, recommendations, and game play.

What are some good memory care toys or games for seniors?

When choosing memory care toys or games for seniors, it’s important to consider their cognitive abilities, interests, and preferences. Here are some examples of memory care toys and games that can be beneficial for seniors:

• Memory Matching Games: Matching games involve turning over cards to find matching pairs. Look for games with large, easily distinguishable images or symbols. Matching games can help improve memory, concentration, and cognitive skills.
  • Reminiscence Cards or Conversation Prompts: Reminiscence cards or conversation prompts can stimulate memories and encourage storytelling. These cards often feature images, questions, or prompts related to past experiences, allowing seniors to reminisce and share their stories.
    • Sensory Stimulation Toys: Sensory toys can provide tactile, visual, and auditory stimulation. Examples include textured balls, fidget toys, or sensory cushions. These toys can engage the senses, provide comfort, and promote relaxation.
    • Simple Jigsaw Puzzles: Choose jigsaw puzzles with large, easy-to-handle pieces and clear images. Select puzzles with a limited number of pieces and simpler designs to make them more accessible. Puzzle-solving can help with cognitive skills, visual perception, and fine motor coordination.
    • Word Games and Crossword Puzzles: Word games, such as word searches or crossword puzzles, can stimulate language skills, memory, and cognitive abilities. Look for puzzles with larger fonts and simpler clues to make them more senior-friendly.
    • Picture Books or Photo Albums: Picture books or photo albums filled with familiar images and memories can stimulate reminiscence and encourage conversation. Choose books or albums with clear, large-print pictures that are relevant to the individual’s life experiences.
    • Board Games: Select board games that are easy to understand and play. Look for games that promote memory recall, such as trivia games or games based on popular culture from the person’s era. Consider adaptations or simplified versions of traditional board games to make them more accessible.
    • Playing Cards: Playing card games, such as Go Fish or matching games, can provide social interaction and cognitive stimulation. Choose playing cards with large, easy-to-read numbers and suits. Simple card games can help with memory, strategy, and concentration.
    • Musical Instruments: Musical instruments, such as simple percussion instruments like drums or shakers, can encourage rhythmic movement, self-expression, and enjoyment. Playing or experimenting with musical instruments can be both stimulating and entertaining.
    • Puzzles with Familiar Images: Look for puzzles that feature images of familiar places, objects, or themes that are meaningful to the individual. These puzzles can evoke memories and provide a sense of familiarity and connection.

Remember, the choice of memory care toys or games should be based on the individual’s abilities and interests. It’s essential to adapt the activities to their cognitive level, providing enjoyable and engaging experiences that promote mental stimulation and well-being.

Space, Logistics, Equipment, Materials and Supplies:

Your library’s open seating area arranged to allow for mobility impaired visitors (access by wheelchairs and walkers, non-wheeled chairs with arms, and conversation areas with comfy chairs or tables to chat and play games.  Consider partnering for transit.

Potential community partners and outreach:

• Alzheimer’s Association
• Dementia-friendly Communities
• Memory Care Facilities and Senior Centers
• Healthcare Providers and Social Service Agencies
• Aging and Gerontology Organizations
• Nonprofit Organizations
• Community Support Groups
• Local Universities, Colleges, and Research Institutions

When approaching these organizations, it is helpful to have a clear vision of the library’s goals and resources. Be open to discussing potential partnerships, sharing ideas, and identifying areas where collaboration can benefit both parties. Building strong relationships with these organizations can enhance the library’s capacity to serve individuals with dementia and their families effectively.

Marketing:

• Pick and test a great and non-stigmatized program title.
• Work with your partners to communicate with potential participants and caregivers.
• Search and engage with local networks, seniors club and residences, and social media (LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, Twitter, etc.)
• Consider outreach and off-site programs.

Evaluation:

• Ask participants and caregivers for feedback for impact and improvement.
• Evaluate your program as a series and as an event.
• Collect feedback and testimonials.
• Engage partners and outreach sites in evaluation.

Tips: Look to the following websites for inspiration:

• Pinterest
• Association websites
• Other libraries
• MindCare: https://www.mindcarestore.com/