Can Reminiscence Therapy Enhance the Lives of People Living with Dementia?

Dementia is a challenging condition that affects the lives of individuals and their loved ones.

For people with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, personal identity can seem to slip away as cognitive abilities decline. But even as individuals begin to lose touch with current events, they may hold onto cherished memories. Photographs, treasured objects, and favourite songs all can help stimulate fond thoughts of the past for people with dementia. Which can help their mental health and reduce challenging behaviours.

Therefore, it becomes increasingly important to find activities that can engage their minds, evoke positive emotions, and foster a sense of connection.

Reminiscence therapy has emerged as a valuable approach in helping individuals with dementia access and relive their long-term memories, providing them with a renewed sense of self and purpose.

Understanding Reminiscence Therapy for People with Dementia

Reminiscence therapy involves activities and stimuli that encourage individuals with dementia to reflect on their past memories and past events. The therapy is based on the understanding that people with dementia typically have easier access to long-term memory compared to short-term memory. Recent memories are quite difficult to recall, and they can get into a distressed state and feel lost.

By creating opportunities for individuals to engage in reminiscing activities, we can trigger memories and provide them with a sense of familiarity and comfort.

Tactile memory exercises provide an excellent starting point for reminiscing activities. Begin by having conversations about the past and actively listening. This allows the individual to share their life story and recount pleasant memories of things they used to enjoy, or positive feelings they had for someone.

Taking notes during these conversations can be incredibly helpful in planning a mental activity tailored to their interests and preferences.

To further prompt discussion, ask questions such as:

• What did you enjoy doing when you went out?
• Do you like music?
• Who were the influential people in your life?
• What fashion choices did you make in the past?
• What did you do for a living?
• Did you have an interest in arts and crafts?
• Did you enjoy dancing?

You could also add some follow-up questions:

• What was your favourite song ever?
• Did you have a favourite dress/shirt you always used to wear?

Once you have established a collection of items and memories, it is important to continue engaging in reminiscence sessions regularly. These sessions may reveal additional important parts of their past, allowing you to expand the collection and deepen the connections made. By maintaining consistency in these activities, you can provide a sense of routine and stability for the individual with dementia.

FAQs

How often should I engage in reminiscence activities with a person with dementia?

It is recommended to engage in reminiscence activities regularly, depending on the individual’s preferences and capabilities. Aim for several weekly sessions to maintain consistency and reap the benefits of memory stimulation.

What if a person with dementia has difficulty recalling memories?

If the person with dementia struggles with memory recall, be patient and provide gentle prompts. Focus on creating a comfortable and supportive environment that encourages relaxation and engagement, even if memories are not easily accessible.

Can reminiscence therapy slow down the progression of dementia?

While reminiscence therapy cannot reverse or halt the progression of dementia, it can improve daily living and the individual’s quality of life by promoting cognitive stimulation, emotional connection, and a sense of wellbeing.

Are there any specific safety considerations when engaging in reminiscing activities?

Yes, safety should always be a priority. Make sure the environment is free from hazards and adapt activities to the individual’s physical and cognitive abilities. Supervision may be necessary for certain activities to prevent accidents or injuries.

What if the person with dementia becomes upset or agitated during reminiscing activities?

It is essential to watch the person’s emotional wellbeing and adjust the activities accordingly. If agitation or distress occurs, redirect their attention to a different activity or introduce calming techniques, such as soft music or gentle conversation. Make a note of the painful memory or activity so you can avoid it in future.