Creating a “Throwback” Scrapbook For Seniors To Relish And Live Through Their Past Memories

Having a scrapbook is equivalent to having your memories collated into a book that one can revisit anytime they are feeling nostalgic.It is a hobby that one likes to do during their free time to improve their creativity, hone their art skill or simply have a passion for arts. Scrapbooking is often viewed as a common hobby among the younger generation, however read on to find out how it can benefit seniors.

Scrapbooking Stimulates The Brain

Scrapbooking requires seniors to make creative decisions on what they would like to include in the scrapbook, the design and aesthetic aspect of it. By doing so, the simple movements of cutting up the photos, writing short captions of each past event or even organizing it encourages seniors to constantly be alert and stimulates their brain.

Scrapbooking Encourages Social Interactions Amongst Community and Loved Ones

Little does one realize, scrapbooking can also be an amazing multi-generational activity. Seniors can relish their past memories with their loved ones whilst putting together a collage of the memorable moments they wish to cherish. A loving and supportive community is instantly fostered when seniors are able to share their past memories with their families, friends and even strangers that they may meet at a scrapbooking event. Social engagement for our seniors isn’t just fun ,  it’s an important aspect of ageing well. Staying socially active stimulates their brains and reduces feelings of isolation from society that can lead to anxiety and depression. 

After learning about the benefits of scrapbooking, how do our seniors start the process of scrapbooking?

      1.  Pool Together Physical Photos and Materials

Seniors can begin by gathering their photos or mementos that they would want to include in their scrapbook and start arranging them on a flat surface in chronological order. By systematically placing their materials according to how they would want, it avoids confusion or added stress when piecing together their scrapbook later on. This process is entirely personal, seniors could reach out to their loved ones or friends to retrieve any photos or momentos they would want to include in their scrapbook.

      2.  Collect Rough Papers and Strings

If, at this point, our seniors realize that they don’t have enough scrapbooking materials, they could employ the help of a loved one, or even make a trip to the nearest stationery store themselves. If seniors do not want to spend money purchasing these materials, they can search around for spare papers, strings and even small momentos or decorations that they would want to include inside their scrapbook.

The idea of scrapbooking may be overwhelming and stressful for seniors, especially those who have not done one before, or think they are not as creative in this aspect. However, creating a scrapbook doesn’t have to be a “one-size fits all” design. Ultimately, everyone’s scrapbook is unique to their memories, experiences and designs that they choose to use. Choosing to create a scrapbook during your senior years is definitely a great way to relish and live through your past memories and reconnect with your loved ones.