Wimborne’s Museum of East Dorset (MED) has launched an innovative outreach project aiming to bring memories to life for elderly people.

Supported by funding from Dorset Council, members of the museum’s team of experienced volunteers visit day centres, care homes and senior clubs across East Dorset to run these remarkable sessions which use artifacts and objects from bygone eras to spark memory and turn back the clock.

These objects include soaps, toys and old records to create a nostalgic sensory experience.

Museum Trustee Sue Cook, who helped to secure the funding, explained: “We can theme the sessions accordingly to suit requirements. ‘Toys and Games’, ‘Wartime’ ‘Holidays by the Sea’ ‘Childhood and ‘It’s a Man’s World’ are just some of the themes we can build around the amazing array of museum artefacts we’re lucky to have access to at the Museum of East Dorset.”

Museum Director Chezzie Hollow said: “Our carefully curated collection of objects will transport participants back in time, triggering memories and sparking conversations. From the strong scent of carbolic soap to the feel of a vintage toy, each item has been selected to evoke a sense of nostalgia and encourage reminiscing.

“Research has shown that reminiscence provides many therapeutic benefits for older people, particularly those living with dementia, promoting emotional wellbeing, cognitive stimulation and social interaction.”

Elderly people at Ferndown Plus day centre in Ferndown recently experienced such a session. Manager Billy May said; “The people we support greatly enjoyed the visual memorabilia brought to touch, feel and smell which recalled memories and events.

“The combination of the tactile and verbal interactions plus the connections made with the people we support made them feel valued and respected.”

The sessions run for about 45 minutes, there is no charge, but any donation amount is welcome and will contribute towards the project as part of the museum’s charitable status.

• For more information and to book a session, please contact Mary Knowles on reminiscence@museumofeastdorset.co.uk.

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