Snapshot Box - Recording Audio usng a Smartphone for a Dementia Audio Gift

Creating Audio Content for Aged Care or Dementia Gift: Tips and Ideas

Getting Started
Topic Ideas
Using a Smartphone
Practical Tips for Recording
File Formats

Getting Started

You may already have ideas for the audio you'd like for your Snapshot Box, but if you are looking for ideas and tips, then I hope this page will help.

If you are needing to create new audio recording(s) then I know how hard it can be to take the first step to make a recording. Most of us feel a little self-conscious when recording or hearing our own voice, and it can be intimidating to try to think of the right things to say. I suggest you try to bear in mind the following tips:

Imagine you are talking to a friend

Don't worry about being perfect. Perfection is the enemy of progress. It is more important to focus on getting something done. It doesn't have to be perfect.

Write some prompt notes or a script for what you'd like to record if it helps you to feel more confident.

If you already have a recording, then check here for more information about formats and quality.

Topic Ideas for Audio Recordings

Ever since we have been making boxes, families have provided us with a huge variety of recordings - family greetings, messages of reassurance, songs, hymns, even dogs barking! Each person is unique and so you should try to tailor your recordings to the person who is receiving the box. Here are some ideas:

So the first step in creating a box is to think about how best to support your loved one with their Box. We have found that people generally choose one of the following themes:

Greetings and Fun Voice Notes

Ideal for lifting low mood and general well-being. Lighthearted message(s) from grandchildren, friends and relatives are perfect to make someone feel special and loved. Why not get the grandkids to record a greeting? Suitable for most people.

"Hey Granny! We love you! You're the best granny in the world..."

Recollections of Happy Memories

Short descriptions of positive experiences, events, holidays or shared hobbies (A favorite recipe perhaps? A memorable sports event?). Suitable for people who will be able to recall those occasions and will enjoy listening to memories about them.

"Hey Bill, I just wanted to say hello and let you know that I'm thinking of you. Do you remember the time we went to Felixstowe and bought ice creams?..."

Messages of Reassurance, Affirmation, and/or Encouragement

Ideal as messages from a recognizable relative to reassure someone in their absence. Can be helpful where someone has repetative behaviors or where a family carer needs respite.

"Hi Mum, I can't come and see you today, but I will be over again tomorrow. I've arranged for you to stay in this lovely place, so make yourself at home, grab a cup of tea and enjoy yourself. Don't worry as I've fed Wally too."

Other Voices and Comforting Sounds

Other recognizable voices or sounds that will carry a positive meaning to someone. For example, favorite poems, verses, or other familiar sounds.

The important thing to remember when choosing a theme is to pitch the recording at the level and capacity of your loved one. For example, if your loved one has more advanced dementia, we suggest that it is best not to confuse them with a reminder of something they may not be able to recall.

Using a Smartphone to Make a Recording

The easiest way is to make a recording is to use your smartphone. Here are three simple methods:

Record a Video: You can just record a video and we can remove the audio soundtrack from it.

Use a Voice Memo App: Most phones have a standard voice memo app you can use.

WhatsApp: Just send us a Whatsapp Message with a voicenote

Practical Tips For Recording

There are a few simple things to remember when making your recordings to ensure they are of good quality:

Find a Quiet Location: Try to do the recording in a quiet location that is free from background noise and echos. Try to ensure there aren't any other background noises whilst recording.

Pause at the Start and End: It is helpful to make sure you leave a short pause at the start and end of the recording so you don't chop off the messages

Speak Close to the Phone: Make sure you position the phone close to yourself to ensure the recoding is of a good volume.

File Formats

We can work with most file formats for your box. The Boxes store up to about 8 minutes of audio, either as a single recording or multiple recordings (up to a total of 8 minutes duration).

If you need any further help, please message us and we will be pleased to advise you.