A HOSPITAL has launched a memory lane appeal to ask the public for donations of publications, old photographs and old newspapers for innovative dementia patient care.

Middlesbrough's James Cook University Hospital is hopeful that the campaign will help to combat memory loss by encouraging patients with dementia to talk to staff about their past as this is what they remember the longest and clearest.

Karen Ainsworth, dementia clinical educator, said: “This is especially reassuring for patients who think they are living in the past because it is something they are familiar with in an unfamiliar environment.

“The use of old photographs can act as a catalyst for patients to reminisce about their lives, often leaving them less anxious and feeling positive emotionally.”

Copies of publications with old photographs of Teesside such as Remember When would be ideal donations, as well as photographs of big national events and old maps.

People who can spare any donations should send them to memory lane appeal, Karen Ainsworth, Dementia team, Murray building, The James Cook University Hospital, Marton Road, Middlesbrough, TS4 3BW or call 01642-835947.