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Dementia is a growing concern in many communities. It affects not only individuals, but also the families and caregivers who support them. As one of the most accessible public spaces, libraries have a unique opportunity to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for people with dementia and their caregivers.
By becoming dementia friendly, your local library can help address some of the challenging impacts of Alzheimer’s Disease and related dementias. By taking action to become dementia friendly, public libraries contribute to richer and more supportive dementia friendly communities.
American Library Association Can Help
The American Library Association has considerable resources available. These resources can of course support libraries in their efforts to become more dementia friendly. However, they can be quite valuable to the family caregiver as well who is working hard to provide a safe, comfortable, and rewarding environment for their loved one.
Libraries have always been an important part of communities, providing access to books, resources, and services that can enrich lives and enhance learning. However, with an aging population, it is becoming increasingly important for each public library to become dementia friendly and provide support to those living with dementia and their caregivers.
Dementia friendly libraries also play an important role in promoting social inclusion. Many people with dementia may feel social isolation and disconnected from their communities. By providing a safe and welcoming space, libraries can help to combat this.
Libraries can offer a variety of programs and events that cater to the interests and abilities of people with dementia and their family members, such as book clubs, music programs, art classes, and so much more.
Let’s learn more about how local libraries can make a positive difference in the lives of their community members by offering dementia-friendly library services.
A Key Benefit of a Dementia Friendly Library
An important benefit of dementia friendly libraries is the reduction of stigma surrounding dementia. By creating an environment that is accepting and supportive, people with dementia and their care partners can feel more comfortable seeking out the resources and services they need. This can lead to increased engagement with the library and a greater sense of community for those affected by dementia.
Dementia friendly libraries also play an important role in promoting social inclusion. Many people with dementia may feel isolated and disconnected from their communities. However, by providing safe and welcoming spaces, libraries can help to combat this feeling of isolation.
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By providing access to resources and services that support cognitive health, such as memory games and brain teasers, libraries can help to maintain cognitive function and delay the progression of dementia. Libraries can also offer support groups and educational programs for caregivers, providing them with the tools and resources they need to care for their loved ones.
Becoming dementia friendly is an important step for libraries to take for them to better serve their communities. By providing a welcoming and inclusive environment, accessible resources and services, and programs that cater to the unique needs of people with dementia and their caregivers, libraries can make a significant difference in the lives of those affected by dementia.
Creating an Engaging Environment for All Library Users
Becoming dementia friendly does not mean excluding other library users. Not at all. Instead, it means creating an environment where everyone feels welcome and supported.
Environmental Improvements
Libraries can implement simple changes, such as creating clear signage and wayfinding, reducing noise levels, and providing comfortable seating areas. By doing so, they can help all library users – younger and older people alike – feel more at ease and comfortable while using the library.
Memory Cafes as Dementia Friendly Events
In addition to these simple changes, libraries can offer engaging activities and programs that cater to people with dementia.
For example, a Memory Cafe is a great way for people with dementia and their care partners socialize and connect with others in a safe and supportive environment. Given the accessibility libraries inherently hold, they are wonderful locations for Memory Cafes.
Guided Reminiscence
Reminiscence sessions can also be helpful for people with dementia, as they provide an opportunity to share memories and stories from the past. The extensive availability of materials on virtually any topic make libraries a natural location for conduct reminiscing sessions.
The Obvious: Book Clubs
Book groups are another great way to engage people with memory loss. By selecting books that are easy to read and understand, libraries can create a space where people with dementia can connect with others and enjoy the pleasure of reading.
In fact, research has shown that reading can be beneficial for people with dementia. It can help to improve their cognitive function, improve social connections through these social groups, and reduce feelings of isolation.
What better place to foster reading than a library?
Overall, creating an engaging environment for all library users is an important goal for libraries. By implementing simple changes and offering engaging activities and programs, libraries can help to create a space where everyone feels welcome and supported.
Enhancing the Library Space to Support People with Dementia
Physical space plays a vital role in creating a dementia friendly library. Libraries can make simple changes to their physical environment, such as improving lighting, reducing glare, and creating clear pathways through the library.
Additionally, libraries can incorporate design elements that promote calm, such as creating spaces for quiet contemplation or incorporating sensory elements, such as music and art. These changes can help to reduce stress and anxiety for all library customers, but especially for people with dementia.
By making the library a more welcoming and supportive environment, it also contributes to an improved dementia-friendly community.
Training Library Staff to Better Support People with Dementia
Library staff play a key role in creating a dementia friendly library. They are often the first point of contact for people with dementia and their caregivers and can provide valuable support and guidance. Even a basic understanding of the components of Dementia Awareness Training can go a long way.
Training library staff to better understand the needs of people with dementia and how to communicate effectively with them is essential. Libraries can offer training sessions that cover topics such as dementia awareness, communication skills, and understanding behaviors related to dementia.
By providing staff with these skills, libraries can create a more supportive and inclusive environment for people with dementia and their families, and improve the quality of customer service provided.
Adapting Services to Meet the Needs of People with Dementia
Libraries can adapt their services to better meet the needs of people with dementia and their caregivers.
For example, through an online provision, libraries can offer home delivery services for people with dementia who are unable to visit the library. They can also provide specialized resources, such as memory kits or sensory materials. This can help care partners support those with dementia in engaging with library materials.
Additionally, libraries can collaborate with local organizations and dementia support groups to provide education and information about dementia and provide access to resources and services.
Special Books in a Special Section
A library is of course, all about books. However, small changes in the way they help those with cognitive impairment find and enjoy those books doesn’t have to be a massive undertaking. It could be as simple as an area set aside – a sort of a “dementia resource center.”
This “Resource Center” could share lists of dementia friendly businesses, offer other resources and communications materials, and more. However, a good set of books can make a big difference.
Creating a dementia-friendly library involves selecting books that cater to the needs and interests of individuals with dementia and their care partners. Here are five categories of books along with three examples in each one to get you thinking about this new form of library programming:
Reminiscence Books
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Picture Books
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Poetry and Short Stories
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Therapeutic and Sensory Books
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Biographies and Memoirs
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These are just a few examples of a diverse range of dementia reading material that can engage individuals with dementia, spark memories, provide sensory stimulation, and encourage relaxation.
Promoting Dementia Friendly Libraries Through Community Outreach
Community outreach is key to spreading awareness about the importance of dementia friendly libraries. Libraries can partner with local organizations, businesses, and community groups to promote the creation of dementia friendly spaces and services.
Through community outreach, libraries can also engage with people with a dementia diagnosis and their families directly, providing education and support and promoting the many resources and services available to them at the library.
Working with Local Dementia Charities to Improve Accessibility
Partnering with local dementia charities is another way that libraries can support people with dementia and their families.
Charities can provide valuable resources and support to libraries, such as training sessions, access to specialized resources, and funding for dementia friendly projects. By working with local organizations, libraries can create a more comprehensive and supportive network for people with dementia in their communities.
Developing Programs to Support People Living with Dementia
Finally, libraries can develop programs and activities that are specifically designed to support people with dementia and their caregivers.
Examples of such programs include memory cafes, relaxation classes, reminiscence sessions, and support groups. By offering these programs, libraries can provide valuable support and resources to people with dementia and their families and help to create a more supportive and inclusive community.
Where to Get More Dementia Resources
There are many resources available around the world. The challenge is how to start discovering new resources you may not have known before. Fortunately, once you start researching a few, you begin to learn more about others. Here’s a short list to get you started. If you want me to expand this list, just let me know.
Dementia Map
Dementia Map is a free global resource directory, events calendar, glossary, and blog that brings many types of resources together in one place. This is a project between Memory Cafe Directory founder Dave Wiederrich and Lori La Bey from Alzheimer’s Speaks.
Memory Cafe Directory
In addition to valuable articles like this one, Memory Cafe Directory is a comprehensive directory of Memory Cafes around the world. To support healthy activities in Memory Cafes and at home, Memory Cafe Directory offers Memory Joggers. This is a fun way to exercise recall and strengthen ties to memories by just completing familiar phrases.
Alzheimer’s Speaks
Alzheimer’s Speaks raises awareness and provides support for individuals and families affected by Alzheimer’s disease. Founded by Lori La Bay (also co-founder of Dementia Map above) she serves as a valuable resource for information, education, and advocacy related to Alzheimer’s and dementia care.
Dementia Friends
Dementia Friends is a global initiative that is raising awareness and understanding of dementia in society. The program seeks to create a more dementia-friendly world by encouraging individuals and organizations to become dementia friends and make a positive difference in the lives of people living with dementia. By promoting empathy, respect, and inclusivity, Dementia Friends empowers individuals to take small, yet meaningful, actions that contribute to a more supportive and inclusive environment for those affected by dementia.
Alzheimer’s Association
The Alzheimer’s Association is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and empowering individuals affected by Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. It is often the first place families turn when first receiving an Alzheimer’s Disease diagnosis. They strive to advance research, raise public awareness, and provide care and support for those living with the condition, their families, and caregivers.
Alzheimer’s Society
As a prominent charitable organization in the United Kingdom, the Alzheimer’s Society is dedicated to improving the lives of individuals affected by dementia, particularly Alzheimer’s disease. They provide vital support, resources, and information to people with dementia, their families, and caregivers. Their wide-ranging services include helplines, community-based support groups, Memory Cafes, and educational programs.
Dementia Australia
Dementia Australia is a leading nonprofit organization down under, dedicated to supporting individuals living with dementia, their families, and caregivers. They have a strong commitment to raising awareness and providing vital services and they play a crucial role in promoting understanding, reducing stigma, and improving the quality of life for those affected by dementia. They do this through education, advocacy, and support programs to empower individuals with dementia to live with dignity and independence while offering guidance and respite for their loved ones.
Library Memory Project
The Library Memory Project partners with public libraries across the state of Wisconsin to provide programs for those with cognitive decline and all forms of dementia. They work together to provide Memory Cafes, educational programs, and more.
Dementia Friendly America
Dementia Friendly America is an initiative focused on creating supportive communities for individuals living with dementia and their caregivers in the United States. They work toward raising awareness about dementia, reducing stigma, and promoting understanding and inclusivity. The program focuses on educating various sectors of society, such as businesses, healthcare providers, and community organizations, about dementia-friendly practices, including communication techniques and environmental modifications.
Becoming Dementia Friendly
Becoming a dementia friendly library is an important step in creating a more inclusive and supportive community for people with all types of dementia and their families. By implementing simple changes to the physical space, offering specialized services and resources, and training staff to better understand the needs of people with dementia, libraries can create a welcoming and supportive environment that is accessible to all.
By working closely with the community and partnering with local, national, and global organizations, libraries can make a significant impact in the lives of people with dementia. They can also help to mitigate some of the challenging impacts of this disease.
