We recently had the pleasure of delivering some Memory Box workshops for the Mullingar and Athlone branches of Westmeath Libraries as part of the wonderful Bealtaine Festival. Our work over the last few years has often focused on learning and engagement through objects, and Memory Boxes use the practice of object-based recall and handling and explore the power of objects as tools for reminiscence and recognition.
Memory Boxes are specially created boxes of objects chosen specifically to spark memories of the past, to remember places and events from our lives, and to encourage conversation and discussion amongst the people who handle the objects from them. These boxes are regularly used as resources for engaging people with memory problems, such as those with dementia or Alzheimer’s Disease. They also provide enjoyable and engaging reminiscence activities for older people from all backgrounds.
It’s always such a pleasure to facilitate these workshops and to hear shared memories from participants which have been reignited by meeting objects from their past. Our thanks to Westmeath Libraries as workshop hosts, and to all those who attended and took a trip down Memory Lane with us!
Scéal Heritage Consultancy 