Not just to hear them talk, but to actively pay attention to the memories they're sharing. ![]() For reminiscence therapy to work, someone has to be there to listen to them. Reminiscing also helps seniors feel heard, which increases self-esteem. Plus, sharing the past helps seniors reflect on their achievements and appreciate what they have done. It also helps reaffirm their feelings of being important. Reminiscing helps your loved ones cope with growing older as they recreate their life’s meaning by being connected to the past. Enhances Self-EsteemĪging is a process that can be quite challenging for many. For example, your grandmother may not know how to talk about how much she misses your grandpa, but she may be able to share these emotions indirectly through stories. Another reason is that it allows seniors to deal with negative emotions they may not know how to deal with otherwise. One reason is that it allows them to resolve issues from their past they may have not dealt with before. When seniors share their past with someone, it can reduce their stress levels. Also, it gives them an opportunity to practice communicating in a way that is meaningful to them. Research shows that as seniors remember the past, new pathways form in the brain that helps with communication. When they talk about their past, their memory ignites and emotion is likely involved, too. Improves Communication SkillsĪs your loved one shares their past, it increases their ability to communicate. Since "laughter is the best medicine," generating happy memories can make every day lighter for everyone that joins in. Prompting senior reminiscing can be done one-on-one or in group therapy sessions. Memories can provide laughter and entertainment for seniors, their family members, and caregivers. It can also take them out of their current situation and help them relive more active days. Talking about the past can offer relief, especially for seniors who are less mobile or live in a nursing home. After reviewing past experiences with a more mature understanding, many people can move forward to live in a more healthy present. Looking back on old conflicts in their lives can help seniors find closure. Something as simple as recalling past experiences can also improve one's body. According to the book, "I Remember When: Activity to Help People Reminisce" by Howard Thorsheim and Bruce Roberts, seniors who reminisced showed lowered blood pressure and heart rates. According to the LA Times, those who reflect on their lives "find greater satisfaction in their old age." When seniors are busy sharing their accomplishments, it distracts them from worrying about their medical conditions. Reminiscence therapy is often used for patients with dementia and depression. Engaging in animated conversation with others helps seniors maintain balance in their lives. ![]() After remembering happy memories, seniors are often brighter and smile more. Seniors who reminisce may also show improved outlooks on life. Many family members have shared memories from their family history. Plus, reminiscing about days gone by can bring families closer together. Seniors who recount past experiences can pass on valuable memories for future generations. People tend to forget that the seniors in their families used to live young, full lives. Often, family members know close to nothing about the lives of their elderly loved ones. Here are some additional reasons why reminiscing with a senior client is a beneficial tool to use as a caregiver. It can include various activities like looking at pictures, singing a song, or talking about an event. These memories can help seniors with Alzheimer's or dementia boost their mood and reduce agitation. This therapy relies on helping individuals remember past experiences through sight, sound, taste, touch, or smell. According to the American Psychological Association, therapy using reminiscence is “the use of life histories – written, oral or both – to improve psychological well-being.” ![]() Reminiscing can have many positive effects on an aging adult.
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