Conference delegates learn of the success of dementia project

The work of an Angus dementia project was highlighted at a gathering of library and healthcare professionals from across Scotland.

Delegates at the Getting The Right Information Every Time conference learned how the Dementia Memory Boxes have been helping people with the condition to retain or reconnect with cherished memories.

The boxes are provided by Angus Alive, Angus Council’s charitable trust, and were developed in association with Alzheimer Scotland and clinical practitioners.

They are filled with different items, pictures and objects, chosen to help stimulate memories for people suffering from the degenerative disease.

The project was one of a range of initiatives highlighted at the conference.

Library and healthcare professionals gathered to share best practice approaches and share new ideas with people working in other parts of the country. Organisers said they wanted to strengthen strategic collaborations across the NHS, public libraries and the charity sector to improve the provision of health information.

Speakers outlined how public library partnerships can promote health and wellbeing, improve health literacy, prevent ill health, address inequalities and encourage self-management through the provision of up-todate and relevant information.

Public Health Minister Aileen Campbell said: “This is a fantastic initiative from Scotland’s public libraries.

“As our population continues to grow, new and innovative practices like this are essential.

“Libraries are community hubs where people can come together and learn about the importance of health and wellbeing.”

Aileen Campbell talks to Christine Sharp.