Another installment in my “Libraries are Amazing” series…
Now our library offers “Memory Care Kits” — a plastic tub filled with items that may be stimulating to those with dementia. Examples include: a 35-piece puzzle, flashcards to match items, giant Checkers, CDs with the #1 hits of the decade (the 40s, 50s, etc.), DVDs featuring “the decade you were born”, and classic movies such as The Sound of Music or The Wizard of Oz. Of course, since it’s the library, all the kits also include the book A Caregiver’s Guide to Dementia.
These are great resources that provide stimulation without cost but also provide a variety of activities to keep the brain engaged. The kits may also trigger other ideas for additional exercises or provide clues as to what is of interest to the affected person.
By assembling a “kit” of related items, the library has given a new life to its offerings and provided a great resource for its patrons. Having a selection of materials all in a tub makes it more convenient, but also packages things in a way that may not have been considered before.
Is your organization able to curate your resources in a way that expands their reach? Think of how you can combine existing materials to expand their use by helping others understand their connection.
