Papers by Lilla Vonk
Dementia is prevalent among the elderly population of Europe, and cases of dementia are expected ... more Dementia is prevalent among the elderly population of Europe, and cases of dementia are expected to increase rapidly in the coming years. While dementia has severe psychological impact and social consequences for individuals, it has primarily been studied from a neuro-medical viewpoint. Understandings of the psycho-social implications of the syndrome and consequences for wellbeing and quality of life are topics that have begun to emerge only in the previous two decades. An involvement of disciplines other than those stemming from the neurological and medical fields can enrich the way dementia and its effects on the wellbeing of individuals are handled. This paper argues that in this light, archaeology can make a valuable contribution to European dementia care. It sets out a theoretical argument that builds on previous initiatives involving archaeology and heritage in a health care context. The argument I present highlights specific characteristics of archaeology that make it suitable for such an involvement. I conclude that engaging in archaeology-based activities could be beneficial for the wellbeing of people with dementia.
Conference papers by Lilla Vonk
This paper argued that archaeology-based activities can be introduced in dementia care as a meani... more This paper argued that archaeology-based activities can be introduced in dementia care as a meaningful activity; such interventions have the potential to trigger multiple levels of engagement, counter negative psycho-social effects common in dementia and contribute to quality of life and wellbeing.
IJSRA by Lilla Vonk
by Gonzalo Linares Matás, Lilla Vonk, Antonio Sánchez, Ariane Maggio, Dylan S Davis, Richard Takkou, Sonja Dobroski, Vivian van Heekeren, Kelton Sheridan, Helen Rayer, Sam Hughes, Bertie Norman, Alix Thoeming, and Amanda Gaggioli A rchaeologists are relevant social agents, and they should aim to demonstrably present our work ... more A rchaeologists are relevant social agents, and they should aim to demonstrably present our work as interesting and useful. We have the social responsibility to make knowledge available for the public engage with our audience, and to reach people outside the discipline. The practical side of archaeology can be one potential scenario. As Lilla Vonk notes, the possibility of interacting and experiencing the past through and engagement with heritage generates fascination and activates imagination, positively impacting the wellbeing of dementia and arguably other mental health patients. Our discipline can provide an invaluable source of motivation for continuing healthcare in a more enjoyable and meaningful way. Another possibility for public engagement is through the presentation of both research and interpretation. Antonio Sánchez, in his study of Roman viae in Hispania, convincingly argues that archaeology is not limited to excavation and recording. The public dimension of heritage ownership demands that it should be known and respected by everyone, and museums can become a platform for this shared exploration of the significance of archaeological remains. The conservation and curation of museum pieces thus become a paramount dimension of archaeological practice due to their relevance in public presentation and heritage display as embodied materiality of historical memory. Wael Gabo Elgat reports the scientific methodology behind the treatment of Khedive Ismail's antique gun at the NMM-Saladin Citadel in Egypt after suffering a certain degree of decay.
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Papers by Lilla Vonk
Conference papers by Lilla Vonk
IJSRA by Lilla Vonk