Project lead: Older People’s Association

Older people’s involvement: Older people were involved in the age-friendly practice at multiple or all stages

Details on older people’s involvement: An active member of the organization answered: “For us each visit is filled with positive energy and gives motivation. And at home there’s no point to simply just sit but do something good to others and you’re happy! “Comments of the occupational therapist in the dementia care center: „Memory boxes are a great way of communication for people with dementia. Memory boxes help persons to preserve their identity and share themselves and their values to others. The memory box is also a tool for the carers as it allows one to better communicate and understand the person with dementia. This in turn grants improved overall quality of care and helps with everyday actions of the older people. In collaboration with „Looja“ the carers can use memory boxes in the process of care“.

Has the impact of this age-friendly practice been analysed: No

Feedback:
No

Expansion plans:
no

Reflections:
These activities help to revitalize the memories of the elderly, even those who have problems with cognitive memory. The response from the elderly can be seen clearly as they begin to speak of their years of youth. The organization hopes for more young members as most of the active members are 80+ years old.

Challenges:
The organization is challenged with limited resources and a lack of personal rooms, but enthusiasm and cheerful people keep it alive. A lot of documented memories has been collected and such an amount requires extra help to archive, audio and video recordings have to be edited.