Memory Programs

Good Samaritan offers two different memory programs for patients and their families.

Memory Catchers

Good Samaritan’s “Memory Catchers” program takes advantage of recording technology to capture patients’ memories on CD, in essence creating an “audio scrapbook” of memories, stories, thoughts and feelings that can be treasured by family and friends for years to come. Specially-trained Good Samaritan volunteers meet with patients to facilitate the conversation and make the recording. Recordings may be:

• Autobiographical – capturing highlights of a patient’s life.
• Story oriented – focusing on a particular significant story or event.
• Conversational – including other family members in a dialogue about significant events or in asking important questions such as: “What was the strangest experience you had on a family trip?” and “Tell me about your first car.”
• “Prop” focused – utilizing pictures, songs or objects with special meaning to generate a memory.
• “Ethical Will” – recording poignant thoughts and feelings such as: “This is what I love about you,” “This is what I want you to remember about me,” “This is what I am proud of about my life,” and even “This is what I regret about my life.”

Story-telling can promote healing and a sense of wholeness. Audio recordings also provide a living memory of the loved one’s voice, something that is often profoundly missed.

There is no charge for this service, and patients may receive up to five copies of the CD free of charge.

Music & Memory

Music & Memory is a program where patients listen to personalized music playlists, created with input from family and friends as well as the patients themselves.  These playlists are loaded onto iPods so patients can connect with the music they love with the goal of improving their overall health and well-being.  Beloved music can renew lives lost to dementia and other diseases.  Good Sam is a Music & Memory certified organization.