Imagine for a moment the possibility of traveling in time, of returning to those bright and joyful moments of your life, it would be an exciting journey. Well, this is precisely what reminiscence therapy offers to people with dementia. But, before we dive into the details, let’s define it.
What is reminiscence?
The term «reminiscence» refers to the act of remembering and recounting memories of the past. It is a natural process that we all experience and becomes a valuable therapeutic tool when used intentionally and systematically.
In addition, it can be triggered by different stimuli, such as seeing a photograph, listening to a song, visiting a place or even smelling a specific aroma. These stimuli can evoke memories and emotions associated with them, mentally transporting us to the past.
This phenomenon can be quite powerful, as the memories that arise through reminiscence can seem very vivid and real. It can awaken intense emotions, both positive and negative, depending on the nature of the memories evoked.
In other words, reminiscence is a natural part of the human experience and can have various benefits. It can help us preserve our personal identity, strengthen our social bonds by sharing memories with others, and provide us with a sense of continuity in our lives.
What is the objective of reminiscence therapy?
Reminiscence therapy’s main objective improve the quality of life and emotional well-being of older people, especially those with cognitive disorders such as dementia and Alzheimer’s.
This form of therapy helps individuals reconnect with their past and reaffirm their personal identity. It can also facilitate communication and social interaction, while stimulating long-term memory, which is often less affected in the early stages of dementia.
How is reminiscence therapy performed?
Reminiscence therapy can be performed in a group or individual setting, and is based on the use of sensory stimuli to evoke memories from the past. They can be photographs, music, smells, or any object that can trigger meaningful memories. Therapists must provide a safe and supportive environment in which the person feels comfortable sharing their experiences.
Reminiscence Techniques
Reminiscence as occupational therapy
An example of how reminiscence is used is in occupational therapy. In this context, reminiscence is used to motivate people to engage in meaningful activities that reflect their interests, abilities, and past experiences.
For example, if a person liked to cook in their youth, the occupational therapist could organize a cooking activity and use familiar ingredients and recipes to evoke memories. This activity not only stimulates reminiscence, but also contributes to maintaining and improving motor and cognitive skills.
Musical reminiscence, one of the most effective techniques
Music has an incredible capacity to awaken memories and emotions. In reminiscence therapy, music can be used to evoke memories associated with songs, rhythms and melodies from the past. This technique is particularly effective for people with Alzheimer’s, since music can reach parts of the brain that often remain intact despite the disease.
Examples of reminiscence therapy
Examples of reminiscence therapy include personalized photo albums, memory boxes with meaningful objects, and the playback of favorite songs or melodies from the past.
For example, for a movie lover, you could create a “movie box” containing old movie tickets, posters of favorite movies, and DVDs of the classics you liked. By exploring the box, the person is invited to remember and share their experiences related to cinema.
Another example of a reminiscence therapy exercise could be a painting workshop that invites people to recreate works of art that are familiar to them, such as a painting they had at home or a scene from their hometown.
Also playing board games or engaging in recreational activities popular in the past can help remember fun times and stimulate social interaction.
In addition, arranging outings to places that are relevant to the person, such as their former workplace, childhood home, or places of historical importance can stimulate conversation and reminiscing about associated events.
As you see, reminiscence therapy offers a humane, person-centered approach to the care of older adults, especially those with dementia.
In addition, it helps improve their emotional well-being, reconnect with their identity and maintain connection with the world around them. And, although this therapy does not cure dementia or Alzheimer’s, it can make living with these diseases a little more bearable.
