Memory Box

Legacy Memory Box

Legacy Memory Box: Honoring Life, Preserving Love

Purpose & Goals

  • Therapeutic Aim: Support the patient (or family members) in reflecting on meaningful life moments and relationships through a creative, legacy-centered project.

  • Emotional Goals: Provide comfort, dignity, and an opportunity to communicate love, memories, and identity to loved ones.

Theoretical Rationale

  • Rooted in life review and dignity therapy models, this directive affirms identity, fosters connection, and supports peaceful closure.

  • The creative process promotes agency, meaning-making, and emotional regulation.

Target Population

Hospice patients of any age or background. Can be adapted with couples, families, for bereavement, persons with autism, or children.

Materials

  • A small, easy-to-handle box (e.g., wooden box, cardboard box with soft edges)

  • Markers, glue sticks, fabric, washi tape, stickers, mod podge

  • Photos, keepsakes, printed letters/messages from family

  • Pre-cut paper shapes or prompts (e.g., hearts, leaves, stars)

  • Basic grounding materials (soft cloth, tissues, calming scents, etc.)

Art-Making

a. Introduction

  • “We’re going to make a box that holds memories, stories, and symbols of the love you’ve given (or remembering the loved one)

b. Decorating the Box

  • Use materials to decorate the outside of the box.

  • Prompts: What colors or materials bring you comfort? Draw or collage symbols that resonate with you.

c. Inside the Box: Legacy Tokens (15–30 min, flexible and conversational)

  • Fill the box with small items or representations:

e. Reflection (gentle, optional)

  • Invite brief reflection:

Emotional Safety & Adaptation

  • Respect energy and emotional limits.

  • Encourage breaks. Use soft, supportive language.

  • Invite participation without pressure—there is no right way to do this.

  • Emphasize choice: patient can choose what to share or keep private.

Expected Therapeutic Outcomes

  • Offers a sense of agency, legacy, and connection.

  • Supports emotional closure and life review.

  • Creates a tangible artifact for family that honors the patient’s spirit and values.

Follow‑up & Integration

  • Offer to share the box with family (if desired).

  • Provide opportunity to revisit the box later.

  • Discuss how family might continue using or honoring the memory box (e.g., on anniversaries or holidays).

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