Dementia Video Scrapbooking

We've talked before about using meaningful pictures or sounds to bring quality to the life of someone with dementia.  As our assess to simple technology continues to grow, we now have the ability to make special video scrapbooks that are a portable way to connect with sight/sound and great memories.

A video scrapbook is simply a video collection of anything you can imagine:  old photos, family vacations, prints, slides, negatives; anything that will spark the interest of the person with dementia that you are making this for.  All these images are collected together in a sequential order or randomly and can be narrated by a familiar voice or set to meaningful music; either choice is meant to add to the enjoyment, not overpower the images.  To keep it interesting, you can add zoom ins and zoom outs and special features that make transitions fun.  All of this is burned together on a DVD.

The benefits of making a video scrapbook are many.  First, its very portable--you can take a copy in your purse or pocket and pop it in to watch almost anywhere these days.  Secondly, it is so personal that it will have the most chance of holding your special person's interest and bringing them a much needed connection.  Another benefit is that it is easy to do.  An online search shows many companies happy to assist you with the process or guide you through it on your own.

I know video scrapbooking works; I've seen it.  Even having a beloved family member's voice narrating a series of pictures can be very soothing to someone with dementia.  How have you used this technology in the dementia caregiving process?  Give us your thoughts on how this has worked for you.

Comments

[karen]

I tried some of your ideas on my mom . She responded a little but got pooped and told me to leave her alone. She does not like being bothered so I need to keep things short and far in between.

[Sue]

Hi Karen: Glad to hear that you tried it. Since it is such an individual thing, you will have to adjust the time frame for her.

Even a little response is better than none. Keep us posted on your progress!

Thanks for writing, Sue