Documents also help

Other sources of information might include important papers or personal letters. Consider making copies of anything precious for safekeeping.

Keep these helpful hints in mind when adding photos and documents to a memory box:

• Use a jar or special box instead of a photo album. Photo albums that are closed or tucked away might be hard to find. Also, don't use a generic plastic container with a lid. Your loved one might not remember what's inside.
• Older photos are often best. What age is your loved one living in his or her mind? You'll want to include plenty of pictures from that time. One exception — photos of grandkids.
• Every picture tells a story. Write that story as a caption for each photo. Include the names of anyone in the picture and the date, if possible.