Reminiscence therapy

Reminiscence therapy is a form of therapy that uses all the senses to help individuals recall their pasts. It is often used in geriatric settings to help patients with memory loss or dementia.

Overview

Reminiscence therapy involves the discussion of past activities, events and experiences with another person or group of people, usually with the aid of tangible prompts such as photographs, household and other familiar items from the past, music and archive sound recordings. It is most commonly used in care homes and day centres, but it can also be used in one-to-one sessions in a person's own home.

Benefits

Reminiscence therapy can improve mood, wellbeing and some mental abilities such as memory. By talking about who they are, people with dementia can help others to understand them, and feel understood themselves.

Techniques

There are several techniques used in reminiscence therapy, including group sessions, individual sessions, and the use of memory boxes. Group sessions involve a group of individuals discussing their pasts together, while individual sessions involve one-on-one discussions between the therapist and the patient. Memory boxes are often used as a tool in reminiscence therapy, and contain items that are significant to the individual's past.

Risks and considerations

While reminiscence therapy can be beneficial, it is not without risks. It can sometimes bring up painful or traumatic memories, and it is important for the therapist to be prepared to handle these situations. Additionally, not all individuals with dementia will benefit from reminiscence therapy, and it should not be used as a replacement for other forms of treatment.

See also

• Memory
• Dementia
• Geriatrics
• Therapy

References

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