Supporting People with Dementia: The Power of a Snapshot Box with Voices & Sounds

John R
Jan 16
3 min read

Dementia can feel like an overwhelming journey—not only for the person experiencing memory loss, but also for the families and carers who walk beside them. As the condition progresses, familiar faces, places, and experiences become harder to recall. But through intentional sensory engagement, we can help preserve connection, comfort, and identity.

Chronicle has undertaken research that shows our Snapshot Boxes can support the well-being of people with early stage dementia. In the words of the Univeristy of Suffolk researchers:

“…findings unequivocally show the positive impact of the Snapshot Memory Box on the social and emotional well-being not only of the end users of the device, but also the loved ones with whom it is shared, or indeed those that come together to create and gift it.” (Full details of the research can be found here: https://www.uos.ac.uk/about/news/research-reports-positive-impact-of-memory-boxes-for-vulnerable-adults/

🎧 Why Sounds Matter for People with Dementia

Sound has a unique way of reaching the parts of the brain that other memories may not. Even when words fade, familiar sounds and voices can spark emotions, recognition, and calm. Here’s why sound is so powerful:

🌟 Emotional Connection

Hearing a loved one’s voice can reduce anxiety and foster a sense of safety—even if the words aren’t always understood.

🧠 Memory Trigger

Familiar music, environmental sounds, or recorded messages can evoke personal memories or feelings of familiarity.

😌 Behaviour & Mood

Gentle, familiar sounds can reduce agitation, ease restlessness, and support relaxation, especially during times when confusion is high.

📦 Introducing the Snapshot Box with Voices & Sound

A Snapshot Box is a curated collection of personal sound recordings that sit alongside a photo to reflect a person’s life story and affirmations from family members. A box can store up to 8 minutes of audio.

The Boxes are rechargeable and designed to be simple to use - just requiring a simple push button to operate and play audios.

🎙️ What to Include in Your Sound-Enhanced Snapshot Box

Here are some meaningful audio ideas you might include in a Snapshot Box:

💬 Recorded Voices

A message of reassurance from a spouse, children, or close friends
A familiar voice reading a favourite poem or story
A recording of meaningful phrases (“I love you”, “Good morning”, "You're safe")

🎶 Music That Matters

Songs from their youth
Hymns or spiritual pieces
Instrumental classics that bring calm

🌿 Ambient Sounds

Gentle ocean waves or rainfall
Birds singing in the morning
Fireplace crackle or forest sounds

Tips: Keep recordings short (1–3 minutes) and easy to access. Be mindful that some sounds may cause confusion and distress so make sure you consider them carefully.

🧩 How to Create Your Sound Collection

Ask Family & Friends: Invite them to record a short message or share a favourite memory.
Choose Meaningful Music: Pick tracks tied to special moments—first dances, childhood favourites, holiday songs.
Add Nature & Comfort Sounds: Include soothing background audio like soft rain or gentle wind chimes.
Organise by Theme: Consider grouping audio by “Calm,” “Memories,” “Family,” or “Relaxation.”
Label Clearly: Use simple labels like Dad’s Morning Message or Grandma’s Favourites—this helps both carers and the person with dementia.

❤️ Using the Snapshot-Box

Here are several ways for both family and carers to engage with a Snapshot Box:

Play a recording during a visit
Use calming sounds before bedtime or during anxious moments
Explore the box together, prompting conversation and reminiscence
Integrate sounds into daily routines for comfort and structure

🧡 Support Through Connection

We know that small moments of comfort and recognition matter. A sound-enriched Snapshot Box doesn’t erase the challenges of dementia—but it can open doors to connection, calmness, and joy.

Whether you’re a family member, a friend, or a caregiver, creating a Snapshot Boxis a gift that speaks when you can't be there in person and long after words fade.

We work with families and care homes to support people with dementia and their families.

Please contact us to find out more about our work.