Memory Lane Project Report. Enhancing the employability of health and social care students through a multi-disciplinary life stories project with older people living with dementia

Abstract Purpose The paper reports on the development, implementation and evaluation of an innovative intervention to introduce reminiscence activities to residents in residential care. This project supported students to design and deliver reminiscence activities within a local care home to develop their work experience and engage residents in social activity. Design 12 students and 3 key care home staff participated in training prior and completed individual and group activities with residents (n=12) prompt reminiscence and social engagement. Data collection method: Qualitative semi-structured written evaluations following each training event and at the end of the project, were collected from the students and care home staff. Findings Four key themes were identified; Skill development, Knowledge and understanding, Working with others, and Benefits to residents. Practical implications Students were able to build transferable skills which they feel will benefit them in future employment. Their participation resulted in greater understand about dementia which they can apply both in their working and social lives and experienced of peer education and multi-disciplinary teamwork. The perceived benefits to residents included a positive impact on social engagement, cognition and well-being of those living with dementia. Originality The study focuses on student perspectives of reminiscence work within health and social care. This study brings together research on the benefits of reminiscence activities whilst focusing on developing soft skills in students studying relevant social science degrees. Further research exploring the resident views would be advantageous.