Living Memories Online, a UK web portal developed by non-profit organization Living Memories C.I.C., is making a positive impact on the wellbeing of older adults by providing access to archive films and reminiscence resources. The portal is helping volunteers to use the power of reminiscing to reduce the isolation of older family members, neighbors, care home residents, and local communities.
Research has shown that reminiscence activities can have cognitive, social, and emotional benefits for older adults, including those living with dementia. It can also help to foster new friendships and combat feelings of loneliness by encouraging the sharing of memories.
The Living Memories Online portal offers a range of multimedia resources, including archive films, photographs, music, and memorabilia, to stimulate memories and promote engagement. Subscribers can also create their own collections of favorite films and share them with loved ones who have also subscribed to the portal, regardless of their location.
Volunteers and activity coordinators can use the portal to facilitate Tea and Memories reminiscence groups in care and residential homes, as well as virtually. These groups provide a platform for older adults to view, discuss, and share memories sparked by the archive footage. In addition to promoting mental stimulation, volunteers also provide valuable social contact for participants.
One volunteer shared, “It’s amazing to see older adults who may seem withdrawn come to life when they see a familiar scene or object from their past on the screen. Pretty soon, they are engaged and sharing their memories with the group.”
To give a glimpse of the portal’s content and its impact, a 5-minute video of a care home Tea and Memories Group in action, led by an 85-year-old who loves the films and technology, is available to watch here: https://livingmemories.imagencloud.com/record/2550.
Brian Norris, Executive Director and Founder of Living Memories C.I.C., explains, “With the support of Imagen and major national archive collections, we created Living Memories Online during the COVID-19 lockdowns. Over the past two years, we have uploaded almost 3000 archive programs and related information and have trialed the portal with care homes and individuals across the UK.”
“For a trip back to the 20th century, simply search for Living Memories Online on any search engine. We also offer some Free To View films on the Home Page and are currently offering a free trial period for those who sign up for a subscription to our reminiscence service to see if it meets their needs.”
“Many care homes and individuals without access to wifi already benefit from our award-winning Living Memories DVDs and printed Reminiscence Guides, which can be purchased on the Store section of the Living Memories website: https://www.livingmemoriesonline.com.”
In addition to the benefits for older adults, academic studies have also shown that volunteering in general can lead to improved wellbeing, lower rates of depression, a sense of purpose, and stronger social ties. One long-time reminiscence volunteer shared, “Spending time hearing the incredible life stories of older people and seeing their joy in reminiscing is one of the most rewarding things I’ve ever done. I wish I had spoken more with my parents about their younger lives.”
To learn more about the Living Memories Online portal, please visit livingmemories.imagencloud.com or email info@livingmemories.io.
Press release distributed by Pressat on behalf of Living Memories Online, on Thursday 29 February, 2024. For more information subscribe and follow https://pressat.co.uk/
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Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.