Memory Care Door Attachment Kit - Concept Sketch 1
Key Elements:
- Large, Bold Text & Visual Cues:
- Reasoning: Residents in memory care benefit from simplified visuals and clear communication. The toolkit will use bold, high-contrast fonts with large text and intuitive symbols for easier recognition.
- Examples: Color-coded sections for personal preferences (green for welcoming, red for privacy), symbols like a bell for calls or sun for morning preferences.
- Personalized Memory Box or Magnet Board:
- Interactive: Residents can use magnetic boards with personalized nameplates, their favorite quotes, or small mementos.
- Customization: Allow caregivers and family members to add or switch out magnets/cards reflecting their hobbies, daily mood, or important personal events (birthdays, anniversaries).
- Routine & Schedule Section:
- Dry-Erase Cards: Include simple, reusable dry-erase cards where caregivers can write daily routines (e.g., meals, walks, or activities). This helps maintain structure and avoid confusion.
- Symbols for Activities: Visual indicators for daily activities like "Music Time," "Exercise," or "Quiet Time" can be added and updated.
- Memory-Triggering Imagery:
- Photos: Family photos or images representing the resident's past experiences can be affixed. These should be chosen by family members and caregivers.
- Familiar Icons: Icons from residents’ favorite hobbies, like gardening or knitting, placed as visual cues to stimulate memory.
- Sensory Engagement Add-Ons:
- Texture Swatches: Attach small swatches of different textures (soft fabric, leather, etc.) that residents can touch when passing by their door. This stimulates memory and sensory interaction.
- Aromatherapy Pouches: A small compartment to hold scented sachets, where caregivers or family members can place familiar scents like lavender or coffee to evoke memories and create comfort.
- Emergency/Alert Section:
- Caregiver Contact Information: Clearly displayed, easy-to-read emergency contacts and medical needs cards that both staff and visitors can easily access.
- LED Indicators: A discreet LED light that changes colors (green, yellow, red) based on the resident’s mood or needs (relaxation, needing assistance, or alone time). This can help caregivers with non-verbal cues from residents.
Implementation Plan:
- Involve Caregivers & Families in Setup: Caregivers and family members will be guided on how to set up the personalized toolkit with the resident’s input. This ensures that the kit reflects the resident’s needs and preferences.
- Weekly Updates: Caregivers can update dry-erase sections and refresh memory-stimulating materials weekly, ensuring engagement and variety.