“If you can engage with someone on a topic they know and love,” Jonathan reflects, “the dementia doesn’t necessarily rear its head during that session.”
Jonathan, Dementia Expert at Kingsway Care
Unlocking Memories
At Kingsway Care, we’re always looking for imaginative ways to support people living with dementia. Our dementia specialist, Jonathan, has been exploring free resources from West Sussex Libraries to create sessions that bring the past vividly to life for Kingsway Care clients living with dementia.
Dementia Memory Packs
Jonathan discovered that West Sussex Libraries offer Dementia Memory Packs – themed collections designed to prompt reminiscence through touch, sight, and conversation. Each pack focuses on a specific topic, such as Having a Night Out, Washing & Laundry, Children’s Toys, or Sport. These packs are free for library members and can be borrowed for six to eight weeks.
Inside each pack are tactile objects designed to stir recognition: Brylcreem tins, vintage soap bars, braces, pipes, posters, and old advertising materials.
“There are far too many treasures to mention,” Jonathan says, “but they always spark smiles and wonderful stories.”
Watch this YouTube video from West Sussex Libraries to see what is inside the 1960s Reminiscence pack.
Iconic Images that Start Conversations
Another of Jonathan’s favourites is a special HELLO! magazine celebrating 100 years of iconic photographs – from the moon landings and JFK’s assassination to The Beatles, Margaret Thatcher, and golden-age movie stars.
Sharing these images with Peggy, one of our clients, has led to animated discussions and fond memories. “The conversations just flow,” Jonathan explains. “That one magazine alone has created hours of engagement.”
Keeping Memories Alive
Jonathan also draws on simple tools like his phone, newspapers, and household items to keep memories alive. He’s found that when you tap into a familiar subject, even for an hour, dementia often fades into the background.
If you can engage with someone on a topic they know and love,” Jonathan reflects, “the dementia doesn’t necessarily rear its head during that session.
Jonathan, even tested this Wartime Scrapbook (borrowed from Rustington Library) on his mum.
He said, "my mum really enjoyed looking through it...bought back lots of memories for her as a child growing up during the war."
He also learned life on the home front revolved around rationing, blackouts, air raid precautions, tinned food and dried eggs!
BBC Sounds & BBC iPlayer: Music and Dementia
Jonathan also uses the music and programmes specifically for people living with dementia on BBC Sounds and BBC iPlayer. Learn more about what you can find on BBC's website link to Music & Dementia: Starting the Conversation
Creative Home Care
Jonathan’s work shows how creative thinking and a willingness to try new ideas, can transform dementia care. “I’ve learned so much over the last couple of years,” he says, “and I discover something new every day.”
Jonathan freely shares his dementia expertise with practical tips for both Kingsway CareGivers and families supporting loved ones living with dementia.
At Kingsway Care, we’re proud to champion approaches that honour each client’s history, personality, and passions. Sometimes, all it takes is a thoughtfully chosen object or photograph to unlock a world of memories.
Dementia Care
