THE Australian National Maritime Museum has been trialling sessions aimed at people with dementia and their carers that promote story sharing and encourage social interaction and connection.
Seaside Stories are themed, hands-on reminiscence sessions where visitors can touch and hold museum objects.
Museum educators (trained in dementia communication) will ask questions and guide discussion.
Daryl Karp, Director and CEO, said, "the feedback we have received has been so positive".
"The trained educators work carefully with participants helping to tease out memories.
"What results are powerful and important experiences for both the participant and their carer.
"Each of us regardless of our age have stories to tell and share and participants are encouraged to share their personal recollections, stories and experiences in a safe and welcoming space."
The program includes a morning tea and concludes with an educator-led tour of the exhibitions.
Tours are carefully planned to cater for participants' sensory preferences and mobility needs.
Portable seating is available throughout the museum tour.
After the program, participants can explore the museum at their leisure, Karp explained.
While all areas of the museum and cafe are wheelchair accessible, Karp has noted that "due to the design and walkways on the vessels", wheelchair access would not be available on them.
The 2023 program includes Swimming and the Beach, Suitcases and Travel, and Ships and Ropes, where participants share memories of travel, touch ropes, compasses and binoculars, take a guided waterfront walk, and listen to Kay Cottee's circumnavigation of the world, Karp concluded. JG
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