Designing the Interactive Memory Archive (IMA): A Socio-Technical Framework for AI-Mediated Reminiscence and Cultural Memory Preservation

Abstract

This paper introduces the Interactive Memory Archive (IMA), a conceptual framework for AI-mediated reminiscence designed to support cognitive en-gagement among older adults experiencing memory loss. IMA integrates multimodal sensing, natural language conversational scaffolding, and cloud-based archiving within the familiar form of a large format historical picture book. The model theorizes reminiscence as a guided, context-aware interaction eliciting autobiographical memories and preserving them as cul-tural artifacts. The paper positions IMA as a theoretical contribution, articu-lates testable propositions, and outlines a research agenda for future empiri-cal, technical, and ethical inquiry.