Reminiscence Box and Memory box ideas are a great way to stimulate memories in the elderly. It is fun for anyone to revisit the items that were popular in their past and seniors will love to see the items that were a part of their daily lives in days gone by.

A Reminiscence Box could be created for any type of memory, such as going out on a date in the 50’s. This reminiscence box might contain lipstick, a corsage (fake), a record, photos, hair curlers, a comb, etc.

A time period like the 30’s or 40’s could be populated with items of the musicians of the time, coins, magazines, and more. These can also be customized for areas in which people live, or even different countries where the seniors may have lived at one time.

These boxes can be additionally useful and stimulating with tactile items varying in texture, shape and size, as well as sensory items with fragrance and sound (soaps, bells, etc). The senses help bring back memories and these items may help the elderly remember times and experiences they have forgotten.

Other memory box and reminiscence box themes you could try:

Museums occasionally have these boxes that can be borrowed and used by nursing homes. Check there or with your local libraries. If they don’t have any, consider making your own reminiscence boxes. You could even involve several different assisted living facilities. Each can choose to make a few reminiscence boxes, based on different themes, and the boxes could be circulated amongst all participating facilities.

Here are more activities you can do with those who have Alzheimer’s or Dementia.