Asking people with memory loss about past holi-days can help them recall happy times. In reminiscence therapy, people are encouraged to discuss memories of positive experiences. Most center on asking questions that may help prompt holiday-themed memories. Examples of what we at Primrose might ask our residents are:
Did your family have a Christmas tree? Did you help decorate it? Were there particular foods you would make and eat around the holiday? Did you ever travel for the holidays? Be an attentive listener. Make eye contact with your loved one, and angle your body toward theirs so that they have your undivided attention. Ask follow up questions when appropriate. Engage your loved one in activities that engage multiple senses. For example, baking holiday cookies can elicit memories through touch, smell and taste. Look at pictures of past holiday events and listen-ing to holiday-themed music may also engage memories.
We hope you give reminiscence therapy a try this holiday season. All of us here at Primrose wish you and yours a very heart warming holiday season filled with new and lasting memories.
