Built from research that suggests the handling of familiar objects can trigger memory, Boots has launched a nationwide initiative to spark conversations and help rekindle memories for those affected by dementia. 

The health and beauty retailer has created over 100 multi-sensory memory boxes to be distributed to care homes and communities across the UK throughout Dementia Action Week (19 – 25 May 2025). 

The initiative is born from research by Professor Victoria Tischler and colleagues from the Universities of Surrey, West London and Nottingham that supports the connection between smell, handling familiar objects and memory. In many people with dementia familiar objects that combine design and distinctive smell can provide wellbeing benefits including enhanced mood, social inclusion and memory retrieval. 

In the hopes of rekindling memory and improving wellbeing for those affected by dementia, Boots has created memory boxes filled with items carefully selected by the Boots Archive team. 

The items have been chosen to include familiar smells and sounds that help trigger memories. Familiar smells from a person’s past can often stimulate recall and bring people back into the present moment. 

The boxes include popular toiletries and soaps that might remind them of a loved one as well as cough medicine or bath salts can help them remember times they looked after themselves or others. They will also feature items with familiar sounds such as powder compacts that click or cameras. 

Many of the items within the boxes have been donated by Boots team members, partners and suppliers.

One care home that was among the first to receive a Boots Memory Box held an interactive session with its residents. Speaking on the initiative, Lucy Atkinson, Director at Church Farm Care, Nottingham, shared: “During the memory box sessions we’ve held, I’ve seen the most remarkable transformation in the people who live with us here. People living with dementia light up when they smell something familiar from their youth, sparking memories that last beyond the session. One lady was flooded with happy memories seeing items she remembered from childhood, which prompted her to animatedly share stories with the group. The sessions have not only brought a lot of joy but also help to access memories that were otherwise lost, memories that help people to remember who they are.”

Alongside the 1000 Boots Memory Boxes that Boots is sending to care homes, the retailer has created a bank of free online resources with guidance for carers on how to create their own memory box at home to spark memories and conversations with loved ones.

Boots has a long-standing history of supporting those living with dementia. It has supported the Alzheimer’s Society since 2017, during which time over 15,400 colleagues have become Dementia Friends.

“With over 175 years of history, Boots is a brand that has been part of people's lives through generations. Through our memory box initiative, we can use our rich history and extensive archive to spark connections between those affected by dementia and their loved ones and carers over shared memories and experiences,” explained Sophie Clapp, Boots Company Archivist.

Delving into its archive to find creative and practical ways to engage in conversation and improve the wellness of those experiencing dementia, Boots demonstrates its longstanding commitment.