Summer Memories: How Reminiscing Supports Older Adults’ Wellbeing

Explore how reminiscing boosts wellbeing for older adults in West Lothian, with Home Instead’s caring, dementia-friendly support and personalised approach.

An older male adult looking at a hoto album with his younger female carer with blonde hair while sitting on a couch inside the house

With summer well underway here in West Lothian, it’s the perfect time to pause and reflect on happy memories of summers gone by. Long, bright days often bring back treasured moments, picnics in Beecraigs Country Park, trips to Linlithgow Loch, or simply tending to the garden under the sun.

For older adults, these memories do more than warm the heart; they can improve mood, ease loneliness, and inspire meaningful conversations, particularly for those living with dementia.

Why Reminiscing Matters

Reminiscing, remembering and talking about past experiences is a simple yet powerful way to support wellbeing. For older people, recalling favourite summer holidays, childhood games, or family milestones can spark happiness, reduce feelings of isolation, and strengthen emotional bonds.

For individuals living with dementia, familiar memories often remain more accessible than recent ones. Engaging with these positive moments can help maintain a sense of identity and calm, offering reassurance and connection when it’s most needed.

A woman helps an elderly man play the piano, both smiling and enjoying the moment together. - Home Instead

Reminiscence Activities Worth Exploring

At Home Instead West Lothian, we thoughtfully weave reminiscence into our daily care routines. Activities are always tailored to the person’s abilities, preferences, and memories. Here are some examples:

Storytelling & Chatting: Encouraging clients to share tales of summers past, perhaps days at the Linlithgow Marches or family outings to Almondell & Calderwood Country Park, opens up conversation and helps them feel heard and valued.

Music & Singing: Songs from their youth can instantly bring memories to life. Singing together or listening to favourite tunes often unlocks joyful moments and encourages engagement.

Photos & Keepsakes: Looking through family albums, cherished ornaments, or souvenirs can trigger specific memories and start heartfelt discussions.

Creative Hobbies: Scrapbooking, sketching, or planting flowers can help express memories in a hands-on, creative way.

Local Outings: Gentle walks around familiar places, like Howden Park or Linlithgow Palace grounds, can provide comfort and spark memories of past visits.

The Benefits of Reminiscence

Research highlights the many benefits of reminiscence for older adults. Activities that prompt memories can lift mood, reduce depression, enhance social interaction, and even support cognitive abilities.

One MDPI study (see here) shows how reminiscence therapy helps people with dementia maintain confidence and feel more positive. Another study (read here) found that older adults who regularly reminisce often feel more engaged and connected to their surroundings.

Three people looking at a photo album all happy and smiling inside the house

Home Instead’s Approach in West Lothian

At Home Instead West Lothian, we believe that care should always celebrate the individual. Our highly trained, compassionate Care Professionals take the time to get to know each client, weaving reminiscence into visits in ways that feel natural and meaningful.

We also offer specialist dementia care, ensuring clients feel secure and supported. Whether it’s a long, unhurried conversation about happy summers, a walk through a familiar park, or simply listening to a favourite tune together, we make sure each moment matters.

Get in Touch

If you’d like to learn more about how we can help your loved one with companionship, dementia care, or personalised home care in West Lothian, we’d love to talk you through it.

Call us on 01506 346046 or send an enquiry through our online form.