For immediate release: January 31, 2019
Douglas County Libraries has added Memory Care Kits to its collection of nontraditional items that library cardholders can check out. The self-contained kits are designed to engage individuals with memory-related issues and their caregivers, and include books, DVDs, puzzles, games and more.
Memory care is an important issue across the country. According to the Alzheimer’s Association’s 2018 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures report, “Millions of Americans have Alzheimer’s or other dementias. As the size and proportion of the U.S. population age 65 and older continue to increase, the number of Americans with Alzheimer’s or other dementias will grow. This number will escalate rapidly in coming years, as the population of Americans age 65 and older is projected to grow from 53 million in 2018 to 88 million by 2050. The baby boom generation has already begun to reach age 65 and beyond, the age range of greatest risk of Alzheimer’s; in fact, the oldest members of the baby boom generation turned age 72 in 2018.”
In Douglas County specifically, 11.1 percent of the population is age 65 or older, which translates to 38,469 citizens. (Source: DemographicsNOW database, Mature Market comparison report 2018A, as of Jan. 31, 2019)
Douglas County Libraries’ Operations Director Sheila Kerber said, “The Memory Care Kits are designed to trigger special memories of life experiences and encourage positive interactions between those affected by memory issues and their caregivers.”
The kits include an assortment of books, DVDs, books on CD, and hands-on activities such as puzzles and games that can help spark conversations and make reminiscing fun, despite any age or generational gaps that might otherwise make communication difficult between caregivers and those with memory issues.
“Each DCL kit is unique, with different resources in each one so caregivers have the opportunity to provide varied experiences for the people in their care,” Kerber said.
Books for caregivers are also included in the kits.
Each Memory Care Kit is self-contained within a sturdy canvas bag and can be checked out for three weeks at a time. The kits are a free resource available through the library’s holds service.
For more information, visit DCL.org or call (303) 791-7323.
Douglas County Libraries elevates our community by inspiring a love of reading, discovery and connection.
