Reminiscence Therapy: Engaging Long-Term Memories for People with Dementia

Reminiscence therapy is an enjoyable way for individuals with dementia, Alzheimer's, or Mild Cognitive Impairment to connect with their loved ones. For these individuals, new learning or short-term memory may be a little more complicated, but long-term memories are often easier to retain and recall. Reminiscence therapy aims to engage these memories to help people feel valued, comforted, and satisfied with their lives.
Reminiscence therapy works best when it comes up naturally in everyday life. Try engaging your loved one throughout the day, such as during meals, bedtime, or bath time. If they do not want to talk, however, do not force them; the goal is to have a pleasant, spontaneous experience with your loved one. Take things at their pace and comfort.
Some gentle ways to prompt reminiscing include:
• Looking and talking about photos, videos, keepsakes, letters, etc. You might ask your loved one, "What do you think about this photo? Was this your childhood home? Who is in this photo with you? Was this a special holiday?"
• Listen to their favorite music or the music that was popular in their youth. You could even have a sing-along or bust out the tambourine so they can participate!
• Use tastes and smells that are familiar to them; maybe their first house had a rose garden or their family always cooked a special dish around the holidays. You can use these scents and tastes to help your loved on access their memories.
• Enjoy tactile or creative activities. For example, if your loved one used to knit, they may enjoy the feeling of yarn in their hands.
For the tips discussed in today's video, check out this handout: bit.ly/five_tips_for_reminisc...
Recommendations from alzherimers.org:
• www.alzheimers.org.uk/categor...
• www.alzheimers.org.uk/about-d...
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