Alzheimer Scotland ‘Reconnect’ Project
During my part-time job with Alzheimer Scotland in Dundee and in partnership with the McManus Galleries, I helped to facilitate a project called ‘Reconnect’, for people living with dementia and their carers. The project took place during lockdown, and aimed to reconnect participants with creativity and culture and the city, at a time in which they could not leave their homes.
Each participant received a book with different subject areas, and each of the sessions would focus on a different one. They were encouraged to fill the pages with memories, drawings and stories to discuss during the reminiscence sessions.
Alongside the reminiscence and conversation, McManus Galleries collated a selection of audio clips from the archives, associated with each theme. Participants would discuss the particular memories of Dundee they provoked.
Reconnect Film
A film by the McManus Galleries about the Reconnect Project
Alzheimer Europe Conference
The Reconnect Project featured in the Alzheimer Europe Conference 2021, discussing how to create a comfortable virtual space to reconnect with creativity and culture, and counteract isolation during the pandemic.
QOP3-29 Cara Rooney (United Kingdom): ‘Reconnect’ Project: A collaboration to create a comfortable virtual environment and counteract social isolation during the pandemic