Tools and Strategies for Supporting Patrons Living with Dementia: Strengthening Age-Friendly Library Services
This guide is a practical reference for library staff who serve patrons living with dementia and the people who care for them. Each section stands on its own, so you can start anywhere and use what fits your library. It also works as a companion to the Dementia-Friendly Library training modules.
Guide Sections
Dementia-Friendly Library Training Modules
Build dementia-friendly knowledge and skills through interactive activities and real-world library scenarios. Each module takes less than 15 minutes and can be completed on its own or as part of the full series to enhance professional development, team building, and new staff training.
Understanding Dementia
Learn the basics of dementia, including signs and symptoms that may appear in a library setting, and strategies to support communication.
Open module in REACH LMS →Communicating Effectively with Patrons Living with Dementia and Care Partners
Learn practical communication strategies to support positive, respectful interactions with patrons living with dementia and their care partners.
Open module in REACH LMS →Creating a Dementia-Friendly Library Environment
Explore how the physical and social spaces of a library shape the experience of patrons living with dementia and those that care for them. Learn practical tips for creating dementia-friendly environments.
Open module in REACH LMS →Dementia-Friendly Resources and Programs
Learn practical ways libraries can support people living with dementia and their care partners through books, resources, memory kits, community partnerships, presentations, and programs.
Open module in REACH LMS →