As part of the Library’s commitment to the Dementia Friendly Community initiative of West Deerfield Township, we have added another new feature to our collection: Memory Kits.
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, an estimated 6.2 million Americans age 65 and older are living with Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form of dementia. By 2050 the number of Americans 65 and older living with Alzheimer’s disease is projected to reach 12.7 million. We also know that many individuals living with dementia are not in residential care. In 2020, more than 11 million caregivers of people with Alzheimer’s or other dementias provided an estimated 15.3 billion hours of unpaid care.
To support our patrons with memory loss and their caregivers, the library has created a collection of Memory Kits. Memory Kits contain materials specifically selected to spark memories, create conversation, and allow positive interactions between individuals with memory loss and their caregivers. Kits contain multiple items designed for individuals with memory loss, such as books, games, art projects, and tactile stimulation objects. Each kit is built around a theme, and we have kits on gardening, birds, pets, sports, travel, and the four seasons.
If you or a loved one are living with memory loss, we invite you to check out one of our Memory Kits. The Kits are located in our Library Of Things and check out for 3 weeks. We would love to hear your feedback about the kits, and if there are other themes you would like to see offered. If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact Adult Services.
The Memory Kits are generously sponsored by the Friends of the Deerfield Public Library.
