The Mindful Libraries Program is a collaborative initiative involving Nana's Books, Mirador Magazine, and Resense. This program unites three award-winning publications to offer a comprehensive, adaptive library resource specifically designed for individuals living with dementia or memory loss. Through this initiative, we provide care communities with enriching content that engages residents through nostalgic, age-appropriate, and meaningful materials. Our mission is to make these adaptive resources accessible and integrated into care settings to promote purposeful engagement, life review, and enhanced well-being.
Why Mindful Libaries?
Enhance Engagement: Provide communities with high-quality, adaptive books, magazines, and newspapers that stimulate cognitive and sensory engagement.
Promote Autonomy: Encourage self-selection and autonomy among residents through varied formats and content choices.
Support Staff: Equip care staff with the tools and training necessary to incorporate the program into existing activities effortlessly.
Foster Connections: Strengthen social interaction through shared experiences in creative arts, literature, and activities.
Create Accessible Opportunities: Each resource includes digital access and support resources to help ensure that anyone can access, enjoy, and benefit from this program and library.
What is included in a Libary?
Read below to learn more about each resource included in our Mindful Libraries.
Laurette Klier
Nana's Books
40 large format, large print paperback books
We are on a mission to provide elevated, high-interest books to elders; readers and listeners in life review, living with and without cognitive challenges.Truly person-centered, NANA'S BOOKS utilize resonant large-format imagery and familiar verse to cue long-held memories.NANA'S BOOKS use nostalgic moments on the road of life to re-activate 'core selves' and deeply meaningful conversation.
Nikki Jardin & Tavé Fascé
Mirador Magazine
12 Physical volumes of the Mirador Magazine
An award-winning, dementia-inclusive publication. We recognize the life experience of our readers and celebrate their interest in the world by providing a variety of content in our magazine. Our ad-free pages include positive short features on nature, science, history, art, and the people who share their talents with all of us. MIRADOR incorporates large print, sans serif font, and a layout intentionally designed for easier reading. We also include a handful of activities to be enjoyed together or independently.
Luke Gilligan
Resense Register
A YEAR SUBSCRIPTION TO THE RESENSE REGISTER
The Resense Register is a dementia-friendly newspaper designed to reminisce, engage, and elicit long-term memories for individuals living with dementia. With larger fonts, positive and timeless articles, and a variety of puzzles, it provides a comforting and stimulating daily routine, enhancing cognitive function and emotional well-being.
Program Support
Training for ltc support staff
Comprehensive training sessions on how to integrate these publications into daily activities, focusing on person-centered care and best practices for engagement.
Initial Training: In-person or virtual training sessions tailored to LTC staff, covering:
- How to integrate publications into everyday care routines.
- Techniques for using books, magazines, and newspapers to elicit memories and encourage self-expression.Ongoing Support:
The Mindful Libraries program offers monthly support meetings to address evolving needs, provide updates, and share best practices with the long-term care community. Additionally, your team has on-call access to a dedicated support specialist for any questions or additional training, ensuring ongoing guidance and assistance as needed.
resident talks and CEU credits
On-site sessions and continuing education unit (CEU).Resident Talks: Scheduled on-site sessions where residents can participate in readings, reminiscence activities, and storytelling, fostering a sense of community.CEU Talks for Staff: Educational sessions for care staff focusing on the role of adaptive literature in enhancing person-centered care.Other examples of activities implemented with our program:
- Art and Reminiscence Activities
- Storytelling Sessions
- Memory Sharing Circles
- Creative Writing Workshops
- Puzzle and Game Challenges
- Discussion Groups
- Coffee Chats
Program Benefits
⟩⟩ Holistic Engagement: Content spans creative arts, science, history, and nature, providing opportunities for diverse emotional responses and conversation.
⟩⟩ Dignified, Age-Appropriate Content: Materials are designed to be engaging without being infantilizing, allowing residents to maintain their sense of identity and dignity.
⟩⟩ Versatility and Ease of Use: Publications require no additional planning or complex setup, seamlessly fitting into existing care programs.
⟩⟩ Opportunities for Choice: A diverse library encourages residents to explore topics of interest, enhancing autonomy and decision-making.
Next Steps
If your care community is interested in implementing the Mindful Libraries program, here’s a breakdown of the process from initial inquiry to full program integration:Expressing Interest:
Reach out to Resense and the Mindful Libraries team to learn more about the program and discuss your community’s needs. Our team is ready to provide detailed information, answer questions, and guide you through the initial exploration phase.Grant Application Assistance:
For communities interested in applying for grants (such as CMP or other funding sources), the Mindful Libraries team can provide support with the application process, including gathering required documentation, offering insights, and aligning the proposal with grant guidelines.Formalizing Participation:
Once your community decides to move forward, we will assist in completing any necessary agreements and confirm the program’s details, including the number of materials, training schedules, and support access.Program Implementation and Training:
The Mindful Libraries team will work with you to schedule staff training sessions, set up your library spaces, and provide digital access to resources. Initial training will cover how to effectively use the books, magazines, and newspapers in daily activities and engage residents meaningfully.
Ongoing Support and Optimization:
After the program is launched, you’ll have continuous support through monthly check-ins, on-call assistance, and additional training opportunities as needed. This ensures smooth integration and consistent program success.This streamlined process helps your community access the full benefits of the Mindful Libraries program while receiving guidance every step of the way.
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Express interest or Ask a question!
Fill out this form to express interest in receiving the Mindful Library Program into your care community!
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2024 Information Guide
If you'd like a copy of this document, have any questions, or would like to get in touch, please email us at: [email protected].
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