Research reports positive impact of memory boxes for vulnerable adults

A recent research evaluation by the University of Suffolk has confirmed the positive effects of Chronicle’s Snapshot Memory Box on the wellbeing of older adults including those living with early-stage dementia and/or Alzheimer’s, as well as those at risk of loneliness and isolation.

The study also highlighted benefits experienced by loved ones and carers who gifted or supported use of the device.

The research, undertaken with support from a grant from Innovate UK, consisted of a six-month research evaluation in partnership with the University of Suffolk's Institute of Health and Wellbeing to assess the impact of Chronicle’s Snapshot Memory Box on the emotional wellbeing for individuals living with dementia, those at risk of isolation, and people in residential, domiciliary, and independent care environments.

The Snapshot Memory Box is a creatively designed photo frame with high-quality audio playback, allowing users to hear familiar voices connected to cherished memories.

Utilising a robust mixed-methods approach—including surveys, focus groups, and one-on-one interviews—the project engaged directly with users of the Snapshot Memory Box, as well as their caregivers, supporters, and family members.

The research showed that the Memory Box was enjoyable, emotionally impactful, and simple to use for the clear majority of users. It promotes positive mood, a sense of connection to loved ones through familiar voices, reminds users of shared memories, and stimulates conversation. 

In addition, people who gifted a box felt that the Memory Box was a meaningful, intuitive gift that brought emotional comfort and strengthened connections with their loved ones, and could be used as a conversational stimulant or tool for reassuring loved ones.

The Memory Box was also most impactful for those in the early stages of dementia or Alzheimer's.

John Royle, Founder and Director of Chronicle said: “This research underscores the powerful potential for personalised, memory-evoking technology to enhance the emotional wellbeing of older people, including those living with dementia; while also providing connection to their loved ones. 

"Chronicle’s Snapshot Memory Box demonstrates how thoughtful design, storytelling and recordings of the familiar voices of loved ones can bring people comfort, even in the face of cognitive decline or social isolation.  Our goal is to enable everyone who can benefit from a Snapshot Box to have access to one.”

Dr Abigail Webb, Clinical Research Fellow at the University of Suffolk said: “The Snapshot Memory Box is so important not just for the people who are gifted, or use the device, but for those who create a Memory Box for their loved ones. It's often a collective endeavour that brings people together through the design and creation of the device, but also through the meaningful conversations that it opens up. 

"People like to use the Memory Box as a meaningful gift, a tool to reminisce, a souvenir to remind users of loved ones who have passed or who live far away, and as a keepsake for preserving family legacy.  Our research unequivocally showed the positive impact of the Snapshot Memory Box.” 

Based on the research insights, Chronicle expects to focus on making Snapshot boxes more widely available to care providers, expand research and trials to further explore their use in the varying stages of cognitive decline associated with dementia, and explore additional designs and technology, such as high colour contrast and varied surface textures.

The full report can be found here.

For more on Chronicle Stories, visit the website here.

More information about the University of Suffolk's Institute of Health and Wellbeing is available online here.