Maritime activity packs to help people with dementia

The Maritime Memories activity pack

People suffering from dementia and their families are to be offered new maritime themed activity packs to help spark memories and conversations.

The Hull Maritime project, funded by Hull City Council and The National Lottery Heritage Fund, will share the new activity packs with the city’s Extra Care facilities and partner organisations working with older people and their carers.

An initial trial phase will gather feedback before a wider rollout.

With support from Age UK and project volunteers, the packs have been designed specifically to be accessible for people living with dementia and contain photographs, talking points and activities such as word searches, colouring and puzzles.

They are suitable for all older people and are available in both digital and hard copy formats.

With limited face-to-face contact due to Covid-19, these bespoke activity packs will aim to help combat loneliness, stimulate minds, reminisce, encourage sharing of memories and stave off boredom.

Reminiscence sessions at the Extra Care facilities had begun prior to the first national lockdown in March 2020, and are planned to resume when it is safe to do so.

Holly Walton, Community Engagement Officer at the council, said: “These packs have been developed to spark memories and encourage discussions about how life used to be with the people who have created the history we celebrate.

“We have had to find new and engaging ways to reach families and the care workers supporting those living with dementia during the current restrictions.

“Taking part in creative and reminiscent activities can improve people’s wellbeing and mental health and this is more important than ever right now. By offering these activity packs, we are trying to ensure that people living with dementia can benefit from doing something creative and fun.”

Ruth Westoby, Wellbeing and Events Coordinator at Redwood Glades Extra Care Facility, said: “We’re really excited to receive these maritime themed activity packs and are looking forward to using them alongside residents to complement their care.

“It’s great to have the opportunity to shape how future activities will happen too, through our feedback.”

To find out more about the Maritime Memories packs, email hymc@hullcc.gov.uk.