Mindful Libraries Program: Three Award-Winning Publications Form an Innovative Collaboration

Submitted by Nikki Jardin, Co-founder, CDP, PAC Engagement Leader

“Mirador Magazine is a leisure-oriented, age-appropriate online and print publication for people experiencing cognitive change.”

Mirador Magazine

 

Collaboration and teamwork can make good ideas become fabulous realities!

Enhancing the Lives of Those Living with Dementia

I have always been a big fan of collaboration and teamwork. It always feels like good ideas can become fabulous realities when working together with like-minded and motivated individuals. It’s been a joy to get to know Laurette Klier of Nana’s Books, and Luke Gilligan of the Resense Register over these last couple of years. As an ongoing effort to promote accessible reading for people experiencing dementia, I love being able to chat with these creators about the work we are all doing in this space.

So when the idea came to team up for real and create a program around our publications, I was thrilled. Recently we launched Mindful Libraries, an innovative and collaborative initiative designed to improve the lives of individuals living with dementia or memory loss through the power of the printed page. In essence, our three award-winning publications have come together to create a comprehensive library resource that is tailored specifically to the needs of individuals in long-term care communities (LTCs) and other care settings.

Through this collaboration, Mindful Libraries offers enriching content that plays a critical role in engaging individuals and families by promoting well-being through nostalgia, meaningful reflection, and honoring the education and experience of our readership. Our collection defines the “better together” philosophy since each of our publications can be used in a variety of ways toward this end. Having a broad selection of materials also offers the dignity of self-selection in a library of elevated, accessible books, magazines, and newspapers.

 

The Core Objectives of the Mindful Libraries Program

Each of our publications began because we felt there was something lacking in the literary space for people living with dementia. As the Mindful Libraries program was coming together, we identified ways in which residential communities could use our publications effectively.

1. Enhance Engagement

All of our content is carefully curated to ensure that it sparks memories, promotes meaningful conversations, and encourages a sense of purpose. For example, Nana’s Books provides 40 large-format, large-print paperback books, each featuring resonant imagery and verse that trigger long-held memories. These books are designed to help residents reminisce, which can be both comforting and cognitively stimulating. Similarly, Resense Register, a dementia-friendly newspaper, offers engaging content such as positive news articles, puzzles, and games that help maintain cognitive abilities while providing residents with a sense of connection to the outside world.

2. Promote Autonomy

The Mindful Libraries Program aims to encourage self-selection and autonomy among residents by offering a wide variety of content in different formats. This flexibility allows individuals to choose materials that interest them, fostering a sense of independence and control over their engagement with the program.

By offering options that vary in content and format, the program respects the personal preferences of each resident. For example, some individuals may be drawn to stories that focus on nature, while others may prefer articles on history, food, or science.  This diversity ensures that residents can find content that appeals to their unique interests and cognitive abilities.

3. Foster Connections

A critical aspect of the Mindful Libraries Program is its emphasis on fostering social connections among residents and staff. The program encourages shared experiences through creative arts, literature, and activities that promote social interaction. These activities create opportunities for residents to come together, share their memories, and engage in conversations that help build a sense of community.

Activities such as storytelling sessions, memory-sharing circles, and coffee chats are integral to the program’s success in fostering social connections. These group activities provide a supportive environment where residents can engage with each other, share their experiences, and enjoy a sense of belonging. These connections can help alleviate feelings of isolation and promote a sense of well-being among individuals living with dementia.

4. Create Accessible Opportunities

Mindful Libraries ensures that its resources are accessible to all residents, regardless of their abilities or technological proficiency. Each resource is available in both physical and digital formats, which means that residents can engage with the program in the way that best suits their needs. Additionally, the program includes support resources to help care staff and residents access and enjoy the materials without barriers.

The inclusion of digital access is particularly valuable for residents who may prefer using technology or for those who may have mobility challenges that make physical books more difficult to handle. By offering resources in multiple formats, the program ensures that no one is left out and that everyone can benefit from the enriching content.

5. Support Staff

The success of the Mindful Libraries Program relies not only on the quality of its materials but also on the ability of care staff to integrate these resources into daily activities. The program provides comprehensive training for staff, ensuring they have the tools and knowledge necessary to incorporate the publications seamlessly into existing routines. This training is designed to help staff create an engaging and person-centered care environment for residents.

In addition to initial training sessions—either in-person or virtual—the program offers ongoing support to care staff through monthly support meetings. These meetings provide opportunities for staff to address evolving needs, share best practices, and stay up-to-date with new developments in the program. Furthermore, staff have access to a dedicated support specialist who can offer additional guidance and training as needed, ensuring that the program is continuously evolving to meet the needs of both residents and staff.

Publications Offered by the Mindful Libraries Program

The Mindful Libraries Program includes three core publications: Resense Register, Nana’s Books, and Mirador Magazine. These publications are designed with the unique needs of individuals living with dementia in mind, providing content that is both engaging and accessible.

Resense Register

The Resense Register is a dementia-friendly newspaper that focuses on positive, uplifting content. It offers a familiar format that includes news articles, puzzles, and games, all designed to provide sensory and cognitive engagement. The articles are written in a clear and easy-to-read style, with large print and high-contrast visuals to ensure accessibility.

This publication helps residents stay connected to the outside world while also stimulating their minds through puzzles and games. The focus on positive news encourages a sense of optimism and provides a refreshing break from the often negative news cycles that can contribute to feelings of anxiety or depression.

Nana’s Books

Nana’s Books is a collection of 40 large-format, large-print paperback books designed specifically for individuals living with dementia. These books feature resonant imagery and verse that cue long-held memories and stimulate meaningful conversations. Each book is carefully crafted to engage the senses and evoke personal memories that encourage residents to reminisce and share their stories.

The imagery in Nana’s Books is particularly significant, as it features familiar scenes and objects that often trigger deep, emotional connections. This allows residents to connect with the content on a personal level and engage in meaningful interactions with caregivers and fellow residents.

Mirador Magazine

Mirador Magazine recognizes the life experience of its readers and celebrates their love of lifelong learning and interest in the world by providing a variety of content in our magazine. The ad-free pages include positive short features on nature, science, history, art, and the people who share their talents with all of us. Mirador incorporates large print, sans serif font, and a layout intentionally designed for easier reading. There are also a handful of activities to be enjoyed together or independently.

 

Engagement Opportunities through Reading

One of the key elements of the Mindful Libraries Program is its emphasis on resident engagement. The program offers a variety of activities that are designed to encourage social interaction, cognitive stimulation, and emotional well-being. These activities include:

1. Art and Reminiscence Activities

Art activities allow residents to express themselves creatively while reminiscing about their past. These activities can be used to trigger memories, encourage self-expression, and foster social interaction.

2. Storytelling Sessions

Storytelling is a powerful tool for engaging residents and stimulating cognitive function. These sessions provide a space for residents to share their personal stories, reminisce about their past, and connect with others.

3. Memory Sharing Circles

Memory-sharing circles encourage residents to come together and share memories in a supportive and non-judgmental environment. These circles promote connection and help residents maintain a sense of identity and purpose.

4. Creative Writing Workshops

Creative writing workshops offer residents the opportunity to engage in self-expression through writing. Whether it’s crafting short stories, poetry, or memoirs, these workshops provide a creative outlet for residents to reflect on their lives and experiences.

5. Puzzle and Game Challenges

Puzzle and game challenges provide cognitive stimulation while also offering opportunities for social interaction. These activities can help residents sharpen their memory and problem-solving skills in a fun and engaging way.

6. Discussion Groups

Discussion groups encourage residents to engage in conversations about a variety of topics. These groups help maintain cognitive function and foster social connections.

7. Coffee Chats

Coffee chats provide informal opportunities for residents to come together, chat, and enjoy each other’s company in a relaxed setting. These casual gatherings help build a sense of community and connection among residents.

I am so excited to see these programs take shape in the world. I feel that these types of publications can go a long way in reducing some of the stigma surrounding dementia, particularly when it comes to reading. There is still the general idea that people with a dementia diagnosis can’t read, or don’t enjoy reading. Not only is that not true across the board, but there have been studies that indicate that reading can help retain cognitive health and language skills. Additionally, reading can reduce stress and anxiety and help people maintain a positive self-identity, leading to less feelings of loneliness and “othering.”

We truly feel that through this program, people can experience a richer, more fulfilling life, with greater opportunities for self-expression, connection, and sense of self.

If you would like to learn more about us — Please tune in on Thursday, March 26th at 7 PM EST to hear from Luke, Laurette, and myself about this mission. Learn more and sign up for the webinar at MindfulLibraries.com.

 

Submitted by Nikki Jardin, Co-founder, CDP, PAC Engagement Leader

“Mirador Magazine is a leisure-oriented, age-appropriate online and print publication for people experiencing cognitive change.”

Mirador Magazine