A program to help people with memory loss through technology and tablets returns to the Scotts Valley Library.
The program was created by Debby Dodds — a gerontologist who came up with the idea while she was going through her master’s capstone project — to help those with Alzheimer’s or dementia to collect the memories through the use of an iPad and specialized apps.
“It’s a Monday by Monday kind of thing, we have space for six people, six teams of two each week,” Volunteer Coordinator of the Santa Cruz Public Libraries Denise Fritsch said.
People with dementia, Alzheimer’s disease or memory loss, and their caregivers are invited to attend the free TouchTEAM — Tablet Engaged Active Minds — workshop every Monday at the Scotts Valley Library branch from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Tablets are provided and each team is assisted by a coach who guides the patron through the apps that include games, music, images, and live stories.
“Our purpose is to connect, inspire, and inform, and so the TouchTEAM program really fits that to a tee, its reaching out to a population that is not exactly new for us,” Fritsch said.
TouchTEAM began at the Scotts Valley Library last year.
“It was a public program last summer and fall and we did a pilot program the January before that, and then we took a few months off, and now it’s a public program again,” Dodds said.
The library is now looking for volunteer coaches that are interested in helping older folks engage in the program.
“This particular assignment for volunteers is really critical because of the skill set, its not just a technical knowledge, but it’s the ability to work with and connect with seniors,” Fritsch said.
There is an online application process for library volunteers, and she said she is always on the lookout for people whose skills and interests are aligned with TouchTEAM’s purpose, which is to connect, inspire, and inform.
“We are not really a class to show you how to use a computer, it’s how to use these apps that engage you,” said John Ryan, one of the coaches for the program.
Volunteers are trained and come from a variety of backgrounds including education, therapy, and many have had relatives that have had memory loss, Dodds said.
“I have been here watching a few times, and think its probably one of the most exciting offerings that the Library can make for people who either live alone or need a chance to just socialize, and they get to come here and have people help them do something exciting and different,” said coach in training Ray Simpson, who worked with the Ipad to complete several Tamgram puzzles.
Dodds used one of the apps with her own mother — who suffers from memory loss — to create a narrative accompanied by photos.
“My mom can’t remember making it, but every time we listen to it it’s fabulous, to me it kind of puts the care back in caregiving.”
Every time they pull out the digital memory portfolio, although her mom can’t remember making it, she recognized the voices and memories and they are able to indulge in that moment of joy together.
“Reminiscing is just part of what we do that helps us transcend our physical and mental losses of aging,” Dodds said.
Dodds is hoping to broaden services to the population and is starting an iPad memory café at a faith-based institution in Washington. Using existing infrastructure like libraries and faith-based institutions, is the easiest way to reach those in need.
“I find it really rewarding to help people get excited about things they didn’t know they could do at their age and with their condition, and they keep coming back so its just a nice way to give back to the community,” Ryan said.
Those interested in trying the TouchTEAM program, can register at the Library or by calling (831) 472-7713 to reserve a spot.
