Photo Book

Many elderly people develop dementia as they age.  This can be frustrating to themselves and their family members.  Many people are saddened when Mom, Dad, Grandma, or Grandpa can no longer remember their name.  This happened to my husband as his grandfather aged and began calling him Pete rather than his actual name. 

So, here is an idea to help slow the process of memory loss.  Make a photo album but make it very basic!  Put in one picture of each important person or family member.  Try to make the pictures as large as possible and as clear as possible.  (Professional portraits are often best because there is less in the background to distract from the subject of the photo.)  Place one picture per page and put a clear label below or above ex: "Susan, my daughter", "Marie, my wife", "Paul, my grandson".  I like to put each page into a page protector in a binder. 

Each time a family member or SLP visits the individual be sure to review the book and talk about the people.  This takes the information into short term memory in addition to long-term memory.  Also, this is a great brag book for them to tell others about themselves and their family.  :)