Memory Triggers is a new series of picture/stimulation books by Nadine Rudner Brechner that were specifically designed for use with persons with dementia by their caregivers.
Each of three books in the series focuses on one decade: the 1940's, the 1950's and the 1960's and shows 3 wallet-sized, colored pictures per page, of items that relate to the specific timeperiod. Using her background as a former activities director and health care manager, Nadine created these books to use with her own mother Charlotte, who has dementia. Nadine wasn't satisfied with the quality of products available so she decided to create her own.
Each of the three books is 8.5 by 11 size so it is easy to grip and hold. There are 38 pages to each book and over 100 pictures per book with some additional notes in the front and back. The pictures are things we all remember like: movie stars, board games, breakfast cereals, styles, products, TV shows, etc. They will provide hours of great conversation starters. Nadine gives you an index on the inside cover of each book to help you locate specific items.
The price for each book is $18.95 plus $3.50 for shipping and handling.
I can definitely see the books being used by activities and recreation directors in facilities as well as by caregivers at home. In reprinting the editions, I might recommend using spiral binding so pages can lay flat while viewing and I would suggest that the pictures being professionally taken and sized to fit. I did talk to Nadine about having the proper permissions to use some of the pictures. As a publisher myself, use of trademarks and intellectual property can be tricky so it is best to be cautious.
Despite any technical "publisher" comments, the end user: the person with dementia, will certainly enjoy the books. Nadine also has a Giant Photo Crossword puzzle as well that a dementia caregiver can work on with a person with dementia.
For more info on Memory Triggers, please visit The Idea Factory at: www.memory-triggers.com or call 732-494-0703.
Several years ago my Brother-In-Law got subscriptions to Reminisce Magazine (www.reminisce.com)for friends and family members for a Christmas gift. He keeps the subscriptions paid up every year. Sue and I have always enjoyed the magazine. It is all about the good old days, lots of photos and articles. I think Sue spends more time looking through each issue now that she has been diagnosed with early-on-set. It does stimulate the memory. Some of you might want to look into getting a subscription.
God Bless America, God Save The Republic.
Posted by: David Schantz | September 05, 2009 at 01:06 PM
Hi David: Yes, that is still a great magazine with "evergreen" topics that can be viewed with enjoyment over and over.
Thanks for reminding our readers of another great resource!
Sue
Posted by: Sue | September 05, 2009 at 01:54 PM