Reminiscence therapy is a punch in of therapy for people with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.
It can help improve memory, cognitive function, and well-being.
Photo Illustration by Michela Buttignol for Verywell Health; Getty Images
What Is Reminiscence Therapy?
Photo Illustration by Michela Buttignol for Verywell Health; Getty Images
Reminiscence therapy involves encouraging people with dementia to share memories from the past.
The treatment aims to stimulate the mind and improve general well-being.
Caregivers and professionals can then instruct friends and relatives on how to do this exercise with their loved ones.
Techniques
Reminiscence can be used in individual, group, or family sessions.
It is generally categorized into three main types:
Occasionally, participants may recall unpleasant and stressful information.
Sometimes this can be either the cause or the result of behavioral and emotional issues.
Nevertheless, dealing with unpleasant memories can often help someone come to terms with life events and find closure.
Different senses can help a person recall past events.
The goal of reminiscence therapy isnot to curethe disease, as there is none.
Instead, the purpose of reminiscence is to help people with dementia affirm their long-term recall ability.
People with dementia often feel frustrated with their short-term memory limitations.
It can also create a feeling of intimacy and give special meaning to relationships with caregivers.
However, there is a risk that recallingmemoriescan sometimes be painful or difficult.
Try asking questions during normal caregiving activities to make them more personal and pleasant.
Family and friends may be able to offer context and provide missing details to some memories.
2018;3:CD001120.
In:Mental Health Nursing Skills.
2024;7(8):122.
