Benefits of Reminiscence for Seniors

A major benefit of reminiscence is that it allows seniors the opportunity for self-reflection and laughter. Reliving fun anecdotes can boost an elderly person’s mood, and reduce frustration and boredom.

 This can also bring them closer to loved ones, as they learn more about their older relatives’ wonderful experiences.

 The opportunity for seniors to tell their own stories, while others listen, heightens self-esteem and helps to reaffirm just how important their lives have been, and still are.

 Additionally, reminiscence is beneficial for seniors when looking back on old conflicts in their lives. Working through negative experiences can help seniors find closure, leading to a more healthy present.

 This allows them to deal with negative emotions they may not have known how to deal with at the time. Discussion can also help with complex issues seniors’ often suffer with, such as feelings of loneliness and missing a life partner.

What are the Benefits of Reminiscence for Dementia?

 The benefits of reminiscing for dementia can be achieved through reminiscence therapy, one of the main treatments for the disorder. The benefits are:

•   A distraction from worrying about medical conditions, or dissatisfaction with their current situation.
  
  
•   An improvement to cognitive issues like indecisiveness, and emotional issues such as unhappiness, and agitation.
  
  
•   Better emotional communication when voicing current feelings, as well as understanding past ones.
  
  
•   Open pathways to lost or forgotten memories, leading to feelings of increased control of the mind and life.
  
  
•   A reduction in the distance dementia places between family members. Seeing loved ones reminisce helps families come to terms with the diagnosis, and see their loved ones beyond dementia.

How to Encourage Healthy Reminiscence in Seniors

In order to feel the full benefits of reminiscence in seniors, emphasis should be placed on current thoughts and feelings about memories.

After all, the main benefit of reminiscence for seniors is an opportunity to come to an understanding, or conclusions about the events of their lives.

 There are a few ways carers can do this, beginning with a relaxed discussion of memories, and using open-ended questions.

A group setting, if possible, is perfect to keep the discussion going at all times. But if you are caring for a solo senior, listening intently to their stories, and encouraging prolonged communication about their memories is a great help.

 Ensuring all five senses are used during reminiscence is one of the best ways seniors can glean the most benefits of reminiscence.

Watching their favourite movies and looking through photo albums, listening to old music in traditional ways (such as on a record player), handling objects in their home, enjoying favourite foods from their childhood, and smelling old perfumes are all great ways to encourage healthy reminiscence.