Psychiatrist Robert Butler created reminiscence therapy (RT) in 1963 to help treat the primary symptoms of dementia – memory loss and loss of cognitive abilities. Reminiscence therapy “targets the “reminiscence bump,” a term psychologists used to describe the time span most easily recalled by middle-aged and senior adults, typically between teenage years and early adulthood.1 People can be taught to use this therapy with loved ones with dementia.
What Is Reminiscence Therapy?
Reminiscence therapy uses all senses to help individuals with dementia remember events, people, and places from their past.2 This type of therapy is also useful for people diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease as well as other illnesses caused by brain disease.
Reminiscence therapy works because it taps into memories that have been repeated and revisited on multiple occasions over many years. With the right triggers, these memories can be recovered and revisited. The smells of a favorite recipe or the sound of a favorite song can create wonderful memories. RT is also referred to as life review therapy and integrative reminiscence.
“The focus on reminiscence therapy is to bring up memories that spark joy and cause an individual to recall pleasant and joyful memories, memories that bring them calmness & peace. Reminiscence therapy technique, combined with growth mindset, is used to see whether or not such engagement causes an individual to focus on how they feel they have grown or matured, such as intellectually, emotionally, or spiritually. Reminiscence therapy is to be used as a tool to help increase a sense of connection and increase a sense of self-efficacy.” – Dr. Jeremy Holloway 8
Reminiscence Therapy For Dementia
Brain based diseases like early onset dementia can accelerate the process of memory loss and subsequent identity loss in younger people. Researchers have discovered that the power of reminiscence therapy is that new pathways in the brain form as the individuals recall the past.3
Benefits of Reminiscence Therapy
As people age, they sometimes start telling the same story repeatedly because it reflects a time in their life that had great meaning and made them feel good about their identity. They could also remember stories that evoke painful memories about events that were never resolved or had painful personal consequences. Reminiscing often signals that they’re trying to settle unresolved issues on a conscious or unconscious level.
Reminiscence therapy can be done anywhere, so as people transition from home to different levels of care it can continue to be used in valuable ways and provide consistency for patients.
Here are benefits of reminiscence therapy: 4, 5
- Improves mood and some cognitive abilities
- Improves well-being and behavior in patients with dementia
- Creates intimate moments between caregivers and the loved one
- Creates less stress for caregivers
- Helps alleviate depression and can have a calming effect
- Provides a renewed sense of identity
- Helps alleviate caregiver stress
- Creates feelings of self-worth, confidence, purpose, and identity
- Decreases isolation and promotes socialization
Is Reminiscence Therapy Effective?
Researchers agree that there is no evidence of any adverse outcomes of reminiscence therapy. During the process of using RT, painful memories can be resurrected causing emotional discomfort; however, if someone is there to help monitor, listen, and support them, there is no ongoing negative outcome. Furthermore, compared to conventional drug treatment, reminiscence therapy has no severe side effects.6
“Based on reviews of the literature, RT is very effective for persons with dementia, but also for all ages. RT has a strong evidence base for use within a variety of settings (personal homes, adult day centers, hospitals, long term care facilities, etc), and has established itself as an effective, cost effective, and personally meaningful activity for persons with dementia.” – Jordan Lewis, Ph.D., MSW 9
How Does Reminiscence Therapy Work?
Reminiscence therapy engages both the patient and the caregiver, includes all the senses, and uses both verbal and nonverbal communication. It can be a hands-on experience for all involved and it’s often important to use “props.”
Be cognizant of time frames and use materials from the “reminiscence bump.” For example if a person is born in 1950, find materials from the 1960’s thru 1970’s for maximum impact. Try to tap into the patient’s previous hobbies or interests. Jordan Lewis, Ph.D., MSW, also adds, “The focus of RT is on positive emotions and stories related to prompts, including music, photos, foods, and any other items with value to someone. Those interested in using RT with people, especially older adults, should have some knowledge of the history of the population and what impact these events may have had on their lives when choosing RT activities and topics.”9
Here are possible RT activities:
- Watching old movies
- Going through family photos and pictures
- Listen to old music; sing along
- Read poetry or a passage from a book
- Cooking old recipes
- Smell specific flowers or scented candles
- Garden, knit, or participate in woodworking
- Use a weight Alzheimer’s/Dementia blanket to tap into tactile skills
In terms of conversation, avoid asking short term questions (e.g., “What did you have for breakfast?) and yes/no questions. Instead, use open-ended comments or questions. Be non-judgemental, empathetic, and aware that when memories return it will create a variety of emotions that may be both good and bad. Use redirection if a patient appears upset. Listen carefully, smile, and ask questions. Sit close to the patient so they can see your reactions, and speak in a clear, calm voice.
Example topics you can ask about using reminiscence therapy include:7
- Food and holidays
- First jobs, best jobs, working conditions, bosses, colleagues, etc.
- Children and old housework
- Favorite shops/shopkeepers, markets, and significant places from their community (e.g., town square, library, or post office)
How to Find a Reminiscence Therapist
When looking for a therapist to provide reminiscence treatment, look for someone who specializes in geriatrics. They will be familiar with patients with dementia and diagnoses related to aging. It can be a mental health professional with a variety of credentials including social workers, nurse practitioners, psychologists, and licensed counselors. Dr Holloway adds, “Individuals or therapists who provide the opportunity for the one who reminisces also need to be trained in providing positive reinforcement, redirection, and listening strategies.”8
If you have health insurance, be sure you understand what type of treatment is covered so you can get your maximum benefits. If you are wondering how to find a therapist, start by using an online therapy directory.
Final Thoughts
Reminiscence therapy can be an effective way to make the caregiving experience rewarding for the caregiver and the person receiving care. Be aware that some people with memory issues are in denial or are simply unaware of their deficits. They may get agitated if asked to remember something and they’re unable to do it. Instead, encourage them to reminisce about something meaningful from their past.
For Further Reading
Reminiscence Therapy Infographics
