Memoires and Who's Who

There are several things it's worth doing whilst your loved one's memory allows.

Friends' contact details

It's useful to have a list of your loved one's friends and their phone numbers and addresses, with a note of how they know them etc. This can help make sure these details don't get lost, it can help with arranging visits, and with sending Christmas cards. If they'd normally send a birthday card then make a note of the friend's birthday too.

Memoires

You might consider asking your loved one whether they'd like to record some of their memoires - this could be an audio recording on a mobile/cell smartphone or computer, or written down if they prefer. It may be best to let them choose the subjects, and obviously avoid suggesting or dwelling on any subject if it upsets them - such as the thought of a loved one (spouse, parent etc) who's passed away. However, depending on their stage of dementia, there is the risk that it brings back to mind something that then feels to them for a while as if it's only just happened.

Who's who in old photographs

Similarly, if you don't know who's who in old photographs, such as a wedding photo with grandparents, aunts, uncles etc, then you could ask and make a note - but again be very careful in case it upsets them to think of people who've passed away or makes them think those people are still alive.

Be careful that old photographs don't get lost or damaged. If you have time you could consider scanning them or quickly taking photographs of them.