What do you usually put in a dementia box?

Contents

Dementia is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide, leading to memory loss, confusion, and difficulty in performing daily tasks. One way to help people with dementia become more comfortable and engaged is to create a dementia box. A dementia box is a collection of items that can stimulate memory, provide comfort, and facilitate a sensory experience. In this article, we will learn about the various items that can be included in dementia boxes, and how they can be helpful to people with dementia.

Create a meaningful collection.

When creating a dementia box, it is essential to include items with personal meanings. Since memory is often triggered by familiar objects, incorporating the person’s past items can help to evoke positive emotions and stimulate conversation. Here are some ideas that include meaningful items:

1. Photos: Collect old family photos, especially those that capture important life events or moments of happiness. Labeling photos by name and date can help promote recollection and encourage storytelling.

2. Favourite Music: Music has a powerful influence on memory retention. Include a playlist of someone’s favorite songs or music from his or her youth. Listening to familiar songs can evoke strong emotions and memories of the past.

3. Personal Souvenirs: Include items with emotional value, such as small jewelry, wedding rings, pocket watches, and precious jewelry. These items can provide comfort and a visible connection to personal history.

4. Sensory Items: Dementia can affect all senses, so incorporating sensory items can lead to a more stimulating experience. Consider including items such as scented candles, textured fabrics, or small containers filled with sand or gravel for tactile and visual stimulation.

5. Familiar scents: Certain scents can trigger memories and evoke familiarity. They can provide a comfortable sensory experience, including lavender scents, favorite perfumes or bottles of perfume, and even a small pot of your loved one’s favorite herbs.

Participation activities and games.

In addition to personal items, activities in dementia boxes can help individuals stay engaged and stimulate cognitive abilities, including games. Here are some suggestions for activities that can be included:

1. Puzzles: Simple puzzles with larger pieces can help improve cognitive function and provide a sense of accomplishment. Look for puzzles with individual-friendly images, such as landscapes or animals.

2. Memory Game: Memory games that require matching cards or objects can help maintain memory and improve concentration. Consider using a card that has an image that is meaningful to the person, such as a picture of a family member or a familiar object.