A Unique and Versatile Activity for People with Dementia
As a Viva Stories by CONNECT member, you’ll be able to access to over 70 downloadable and printable booklets, with new booklets added every month—ensuring fresh, engaging content for your participants.
Designed to spark meaningful interactions, these stories provide a versatile and enriching experience. We’re confident you and your participants will love Viva Stories by CONNECT—explore a sample story today!
NOTE: When you click the button, the booklet will download as a PDF
Why Was Viva Stories by CONNECT Created?
It all started years ago when in a nursing home. We saw something that stuck with us—a staff member handed a resident with dementia a children’s picture book.
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The resident was a retired accountant, a well-educated woman who could still read. But that book, meant for toddlers, didn’t respect her intelligence or life experience. It didn’t feel right. She deserved better.
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That moment changed everything. We knew there had to be a way to offer reading materials that were both accessible and age-appropriate, allowing individuals with dementia to enjoy stories without feeling diminished.
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That’s why we created Viva Stories by CONNECT—a reading program designed with engaging, adult-focused topics, easy-to-read text, discussion prompts, and vibrant images to spark connection, conversation, and joy.
Engaging Stories for Every Interest
Everyone has different passions—some find joy in gardening, others love classic films. Maybe you’re a baseball fan, while someone else is captivated by history. Viva Stories by CONNECT embraces these unique interests with a rich collection of reading materials designed to engage and inspire. ​
With over 70 diverse topics and fresh content added every month, there’s always something new to explore. Whether in a care facility or at home, our booklets encourage meaningful conversations, fond memories, and the excitement of discovering new favorites.
NOTE: When you click the button, the booklet will download as a PDF
What Makes Viva Stories by CONNECT Unique?​​
Backed by Research
Developed and tested over a decade with funding from the National Institute on Aging​​​
Memory-Friendly
Each page stands alone, so participants don’t have to remember previous content
Easy-to-Read
Large, bold, sans-serif text for enhanced visibility, even for those with vision issues​​
Engaging Content
Adult appropriate content, full of fascinating facts designed to spark conversation
Improves Well-Being
Research shows Viva Stories enhances quality of life, social interaction, & engagement
Interactive Discussion
Discussion prompts written by dementia experts create authentic engagement
Simple to Lead
Easy for volunteers or family members to facilitate, with no special training required