Creating Quilting Memory Books for Alzheimer’s Patients
September 6, 2008 by Mary Emma Allen
Filed under Arts & Crafts
I’ve sometimes discussed memory book projects for Alzheimer’s patients at my Alzheimer’s Notes blog and how these help jog the person’s memory and give you both something to talk about.
Why not include quilting in these memory books if this ever played a part of your family member’s life?
- Do you have photos of quilting/fabric art projects the patient may have made?
- Do you have photos of a favorite quilt they used on their bed or as a decorative accent?
- Is there a photo of a quilt they received as a gift?
- Were they involved in quilting with someone…a friend, family member? A photo of the person may help as a memory and conversation jogger.
- Did they participate in quilt shows/exhibits?
Keep these albums simple…just a small book they can hold easily,which doesn’t involve complex situations. They usually can process one memory at a time.
This also can be utilized as a group project at a nursing home.
Have you used quilting as a memory jogger or a fun project with your Alzheimer’s family member…or with patients if you work at a nursing home? Do share with us.
(c)2008 Mary Emma Allen
I’ve been making scrapbook pages for my mother-in-law using photos from different stages of her life. They often elicit comments about how clothing styles have changed. I can almost see’s Mom’s mind going back to each era: remembering hairstyles, a favorite dress, a suit she made for her son - my husband - when he was a toddler. It’s a fun way to jog someone’s memory.