Libraries across Moray are leading a new drive to create dementia friendly communities.
Moray Council staff have been trained in dementia awareness and ways to support people living with the condition, as well as those worried about memory loss.
After completing advanced training, senior staff can now carry out environmental audits on library buildings and recommend simple improvements to make them less confusing for customers with dementia.
This includes changing signs to include symbols as well as words and making sure the design and colour schemes of walls, flooring and furniture is “right”.
Principal librarian Sheila Campbell said: “We are delighted to be launching a new dementia collection in Elgin, Fochabers and Forres libraries.
“This new collection contains books selected and recommended by dementia healthcare experts, people with dementia and their carers.”
The local authority is working with other partner organisations to raise awareness about dementia and the challenges sufferers can face when using everyday services.
A key aim is to promote a dementia-friendly environment in public places and to help people remain independent in their local community for as long as possible.
Creating dementia friendly libraries is the latest step for the council’s libraries service which has prioritised improved living conditions for those with dementia and their families for some time.
Other initiatives include the introduction of reminiscence boxes, which are loaned out to groups and individuals to support those who find it easier to remember things from the past than recent happenings.
Digital reminiscence technology is also available for use in Elgin library as part of a session with staff support.
The equipment enables people with memory problems to create their own digital “My Life” story book with pictures, video clips and music which evokes memories for them. It can be shared with family, friends and carers to aid communication.