MEMORABLE Project Press Release

DCU is participating in the newly launched Erasmus+ project MEMORABLE. This initiative takes a multifaceted approach to support cultural institutions, (in)formal caregivers, and other stakeholders in facilitating the inclusion of people living with dementia and their loved ones in arts and culture.

This project seeks to adapt existing artistic and cultural activities or create new opportunities, ensuring that individuals living with dementia and their loved ones can fully participate and enjoy them. To support this, it will provide accessible educational materials, equipping individuals and organizations with the necessary skills and knowledge to foster inclusive cultural experiences and make a significant impact by addressing a critical gap in educational resources for volunteers, (in)formal caregivers, artists, and cultural stakeholders.

"Being invited to be part of the Memorable Project is an honour. It recognises DCU's expertise in ageing research and its commitment to its mission 'transforming lives and societies' resulting in a legacy of collaboration, creativity, and growth that continues long after a project is finished" said Dr. Christine O'Kelly, DCU Age Friendly Co-Ordinator

Read more about the project here

Press Release

On January 14-15, 2025, the Memorable project was officially launched in Sofia, Bulgaria, hosted by the Alzheimer Bulgaria Association. This Erasmus+ initiative is dedicated to creating a dementia-friendly society by integrating art and culture to strengthen connections between individuals living with dementia and their communities.

The Memorable consortium includes the Alzheimer Bulgaria Association (Coordinator, Bulgaria), SHINE 2Europe (Portugal), AFEdemy (The Netherlands), ISIS Institut für Soziale Infrastruktur (Germany), and Dublin City University (Ireland).

Partners outlined the project’s goals and action plan at the kick-off meeting. Key activities in the following months include desk research on dementia-friendly cultural practices in partner countries and interviews with people living with dementia, informal caregivers, and experts to co-create impactful project outcomes.

This enriching collaboration connects countries with diverse expertise and backgrounds. Together, we aim to create meaningful change for people living with dementia across Europe,” said Lora Lyubenova, project coordinator from the Alzheimer Bulgaria Association.

The Memorable project will focus on empowering volunteers, caregivers, artists, and cultural professionals through training to create dementia-friendly cultural spaces. It will support museums, galleries, and cultural venues in becoming more accessible to individuals with dementia.

Expected outcomes include a European Compendium of Dementia-Friendly Cultural Practices, a Curriculum and Training Manual, an E-Learning Platform for accessible training, and a Policy Booklet with recommendations for promoting dementia-friendly cultural practices.

Updated information on the project will be available at https://memorable-project.eu/.