Girl Scout Troop 1239 in Seymour in partnership with Schneck Home Services has created memory books for patients experiencing dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.

The books were created by finding and cutting out pictures or scenes from magazines, cards, calendars, etc. The patient’s family then fills the remainder of the book with personal memories, photos and stories.

The book is shared with the patient to stimulate memory and remind the patient of their lives and those of their loved ones, details the person often forgets.

“The memory book is a form of reminiscence therapy. A person with memory loss is often more able to recall life experiences and stories from many years ago than recent happenings, and reminiscence therapy draws on this strength,” said Denise Swegles, director of Schneck Home Services.

“We have had great results with this tool for the mental stimulation of these patients," she said. "Research has shown that those with severe memory loss, dementia or Alzheimer’s will feel more valued, contented and peaceful if they are reminded of their lives and those of their loved ones. This is truly a community project that touches and adds to the quality of life for our patients.”