Everyday objects bring memories flooding back
Article and photograph courtesy of Eastern Evening News originally published Tuesday September 5th 2006.
Its distinctive smell is unforgettable and can bring back a rush of memories.
But something a simple as traditional carbolic soap is proving very successful at keeping minds healthy in care homes across Norfolk.
Accompanied by a host of nostalgic props, an intrepid duo known as Memory Joggers are helping elderly people to recall the days of their youth in a type of treatment called reminiscence therapy.
The old items, such as old milk pails, gollies, corsets, candlestick holders, vegetable strainers and teddy bears, are known as “triggers” because they can re-awaken memories.
One place where the sessions have proved popular is at Thomas Tawell House, a residential home for elderly people who are registered blind.
Sheena Ashford with Thomas Tawell House residents Paul Webb and Ivy Shepherd, holding a darning mushroom.
The old-fashioned scents, such as 4711 eau de cologne An Evening in Paris and California Poppy are particularly popular at the house.
Resident Florence Bell, 90, said: “It’s nice to bring back the old memories. It keeps your brain going doesn’t it?”
Daughter Sue Greenfield, 59, of Little Plumstead said the sessions really helped her mum because of her sight problems.
She said “Things she can feel bring back memories and she can chat about.”
Sharon Gaul manager of Thomas Tawell House, said “ With blindness they can get quite isolated, but we have found the tactile side of the reminiscence works well because of the the objects they bring in. Some people can’t communicate very well and it helps them to open up.”
Memory Joggers was set up by Bob Warnes, 63 from Martham, and Sheena Ashford, 43, of Great Yarmouth. The pair used to work together in the museum service, at the Tolhouse and Elizabeth House, in Great Yarmouth.
As part of their work they were sent on a course on reminiscence, which was sponsored by the Department of Health.
They both decided they loved the work so much they branched out 18 months and set up Memory Joggers.
While some of the “triggers” have been found at car boot sales and antiques fairs, a lot have been donated and Bob and Sheena are always keen to acquire more old and unusual items.
The pair now visit 30 care homes across Norfolk and Suffolk, as well as giving educational talks to schools, and holding entertaining workshops for Womens Institute groups, clubs and societies.
They are also planning to teach evening classes in reminiscence, which will be aimed at care home workers.
Memory Joggers can be contacted on 01493 740018 or 07717 645519, or by email at bobw2@btinternet.com.