How “reminiscence therapy” is changing lives
“Reminiscence therapy” may sound like a strange concept, but it’s working wonders in the aged care community. According to the American Psychological Association, reminiscence therapy is “the use of life histories – written, oral or both – to improve psychological wellbeing.”
Essentially, self-reflection is our best defence when it comes to preventing memory loss and preserving our stories for future generations. Feros Care CEO Jennene Buckley told YourLifeChoices that this unique brand of therapy benefits both carers and their patients, improving communication and understanding.
“Preserving memories of seniors provides a meaningful experience for everyone involved.” She said. Reminiscing can provide a historical record – through tracing the stories behind the traditions and heirlooms, collecting and compiling photos, family recipes and family keepsakes to create a legacy for loved ones. The increase in positivity following reminiscence therapy can help carers improve their relationship with the senior in their care.”
In fact, reminiscence therapy isn’t just for the elderly – we all do it throughout our lives as a way of understanding ourselves better and connecting with our personal history.
Fortunately, reminiscence therapy is something we can all do easily with our loved ones, and it is believed to have particularly good benefits for those suffering dementia. Simply recalling previous events and moments in their life can help them gain a greater sense of self awareness and understanding, both of which are often the first things to disappear when a patient is diagnosed.
According to Buckley, other benefits include:
- Improved mood
- Better interpersonal relationships
- Enhanced social skills
- Fewer feelings of loneliness
- Increased self-awareness
- Greater relationship with the carer
You may have been conducting reminiscence therapy for years and not even known it. What do you think about this new therapy? Tell us your thoughts in the comments below.
Related links:
4 ways to stay independent for longer
Technology is revolutionising aged care
Communicating with people with dementia