Sydney, Australia, 4 February 2025 – A new research report released today, which surveyed over 1,000 Australians with direct contact with someone living with dementia, reveals the powerful role visual prompts play in deepening connections with people living with dementia.
The independent research conducted by VistaPrint for Dementia Australia found that more than 7-in-10 (76%) Australians who have used visual prompts to support someone living with dementia say it has generated a positive emotional response, and over two-thirds (68%) say visual prompts strengthen their bond with people living with dementia.
People living with dementia experience several key benefits from using these sentimental cues, including improved mood (63%), increased engagement (58%), enhanced memory recall (56%), and increased communication (54%). Half of respondents (50%) said it reduced anxiety or agitation, while 53% said it made them feel more connected to their past.
The findings also revealed nearly 8-in-10 (79%) Australians who have used visual prompts to support someone living with dementia regularly do so, with 1-in-6 (16%) using prompts daily, 2-in-5 (42%) weekly, and a fifth (21%) monthly.
Personal memorabilia and going beyond visual prompts
Personal memorabilia can play a vital role in maintaining connections. Family photos are the most used prompt (89%), followed by photobooks (62%), and canvases and framed photos (32%). Two-thirds (65%) of those surveyed believe that physical photos are more effective than digital ones in supporting someone with dementia.
Beyond visual prompts, other frequently used methods to connect with people living with dementia include sharing stories or past experiences (61%), playing music, movies, or TV shows (54%), and engaging in familiar routines (53%).
Professor Tanya Buchanan, CEO of Dementia Australia, said, “The findings reinforce reminiscence and visual prompts can be used to help improve the lives of people living with dementia and those close to them. We know that with an estimated more than 421,000 Australians living with dementia in 2024 and more than 1.6 million involved in their care, the ripple effects are far-reaching. It is vital that we continue to raise awareness and offer education about the tools and techniques that may make a difference.”
VistaPrint launches Memory Maker collection in support of Dementia Australia.
In response to the research findings, VistaPrint and Dementia Australia have launched a Memory Maker Collection which aims to unlock valuable and lasting memories. The range includes customisable photobooks, canvases, framed photos, cushions, mugs, mousepads, notebooks, t-shirts and more. 5% of the total sales of the collection are being donated to Dementia Australia and the work they do to raise awareness and improve the lives of people living with dementia.
Marcus Marchant, CEO of VistaPrint Australia, commented, “Dementia affects so many lives, including those of our own team members and their families, which is why we are dedicated to supporting others facing similar challenges. Our relationship with Dementia Australia and the launch of the Memory Maker collection reflects our commitment to making a tangible difference to the millions affected by dementia across the country, today and in the future. Together, through increased awareness and donations, we hope to create a lasting impact.”
Keith’s story: the reminiscence garden developed for people with dementia and their carers
Leura-based Keith Davies, who has been caring for his wife Bev, knows just how reminiscence opportunities can help.
Despite her now advanced dementia, Keith uses visual, aural and physical prompts, especially music, to help Bev and himself retain their very close relationship and continuing emotional connection.
“Incorporating photos of our family, especially the ones from our earlier years, has made a huge difference too. When Bev sees those images or hears our music we can share moments of connection that I thought were slipping away.”
Since 2017, Keith’s friend Peter Swindell has created a dementia friendly garden for residents in the aged care facility in which Bev resides. Peter’s garden, along with other memorabilia, makes a significant difference to the quality of Bev’s life and to that of many other residents, carers and families.
Key Facts:
Latest research reveals the powerful role visual prompts play in deepening connections with loved ones living with dementia
●Over 7-in-10 (76%) Australians who have a direct relationship with someone living with dementia and have used visual prompts to support them say visual prompts create a positive emotional reaction from people living with dementia
●Over two-thirds (68%) say visual prompts strengthen their bond with people living with dementia
●In response to the research findings, VistaPrint and Dementia Australia have launched a Memory Maker Collection which aims to unlock valuable and lasting memories, with 5% of the total sales being donated to Dementia Australia
About us:
About VistaPrint
VistaPrint is the design and marketing partner to millions of small businesses around the world. For more than 20 years, VistaPrint has helped small businesses look, work, and feel credible through high-quality marketing products and solutions that include signage, logo apparel, promotional products, flyers, postcards, business cards, websites and digital marketing. In addition to providing design and marketing support to small businesses.
VistaPrint also helps consumers turn special moments into memories with a wide assortment of custom photo gifts, including photo books, wall art, keepsakes and drinkware.
VistaPrint is a Cimpress company (Nasdaq: CMPR). To learn more, visit vistaprint.com.au.
About Dementia Australia
Dementia Australia is the source of trusted information, education and services for the estimated more than 421,000 Australians living with dementia, and the more than 1.6 million people involved in their care. We advocate for positive change and support vital research. We are here to support people impacted by dementia, and to enable them to live as well as possible. No matter how you are impacted by dementia or who you are, we are here for you.
For support, please contact the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500. An interpreter service is available. The National Dementia Helpline is funded by the Australian Government. People looking for information can also visit dementia.org.au
About the research
Release by VistaPrint and Dementia Australia to measure the benefits of Reminiscence Therapy for those living with dementia. Overview and Consumer Sampling: This research was produced by VistaPrint Australia, based on an online study conducted by Pure Profile Research with n = 1,008 Australians with direct contact with someone living with dementia. The sample was designed to be nationally representative on age, gender, and location. This research was conducted in September 2024.
Contact details:
Edelman Australia for VistaPrint
