Mapo-gu to host picture book exhibition by residents with dementia

Mapo-gu will run a community exhibition titled "Gieok Yeollamshil" (memory browsing room) at five local libraries and the Mapo Dementia Care Center from Tuesday through Sept. 20, the district announced Thursday, ahead of Dementia Awareness Day on Sept. 21.

Themed around "a space to read, leave behind and carry on memories," the exhibition features picture books created by elderly residents with dementia and their families, sharing personal stories and everyday recollections to help visitors develop a closer understanding of the condition.

The books on display were made through a 12-session picture book production program. Each one-of-a-kind work captures its creator's own story — time spent with family, cherished moments from daily life — and will be shown to the public for the first time.

Interactive programs are also available for visitors. After touring the exhibition, visitors can record their own memories and thoughts in a "memory log," and add words of encouragement for the elderly participants and their families on a "Dementia Awareness Tree."

Admission is free and no prior registration is required. The exhibition will be held at Mapo Central Library, the Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education's Mapo Lifelong Learning Center, Mapo District Library Seogang, Mapo District Library Sogeumsauru, Mapo District Library Haeoeum and the Mapo Dementia Care Center.

Meanwhile, the district will conduct free memory screenings at seven neighborhood community centers on a rotating basis from September through November to help detect dementia early and support systematic care.

"I hope this exhibition becomes an opportunity to listen to the precious stories of elderly residents with dementia and their families, and to look upon one another with warmth," District Mayor Yoo Dong-gyun said.