21st century clinicians discover 20th century gems
To mark World Alzheimer’s Day we’re sharing details of an exciting project to collate boxes of donated nostalgic items for patients who have memory impairment.
Holding and looking at these vintage gems can spark happy memories and conversations, which can be therapeutic.
The health board’s library service will keep boxes at Morriston, Singleton, Neath Port Talbot and Cefn Coed hospitals for staff to check out when needed.
1 in 14 people over the age of 65 have dementia in the UK, according to Alzheimer’s Research UK. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia.
Thanks to the public and staff, trainee clinical librarian Betsy Morgan is building a great collection of items dating from the early to late 20th century.
Many would have been commonplace in homes decades ago, but have since become obsolete and consigned to the back of cupboards and attics or been thrown away.
For fun, we asked some 21st century clinicians and medical students to see how many of a small number of the items they could identify.
Huge thanks to discharge liaison nurse Julie Trinh, medical student Charlotte Davies, Dr Charlotte Lyon-Dean and medical student Makua Okonyia for sparing a few minutes during their study time in Morriston Hospital library and for being good sports.
Thanks also to Betsy for the explanations.