The ability of seniors to RECALL and CONNECT to a shared history is exciting to see. Whether the artifact is an old inkwell, or a toy soldier, seniors recall these items and enjoy going back in time.
Personal identity can slip away as cognitive abilities unfortunately start to decline in seniors especially those with dementia. It’s amazing to see that although current events may become more difficult to remember, seniors often hold onto cherished memories from their past.
The artifacts found and discussed help stimulate fond thoughts of the past. (see diagram below) We use the vintage artifacts to help seniors recall some of those memories. Simple conversations and storytelling can help individuals feel less isolated and more connected to the present. Sharing memories can help develop more positive feelings while reducing stress and agitation even if for a short time. With minimal prompting, seniors may recall memories from childhood and young adulthood.
There are many other benefits of the program. These other benefits include: increased pleasurable social interaction, decreased boredom, and increased self esteem and identity as seniors express their shared history.
HOW THE PROGRAM WORKS
The artifacts are the hub and a catalyst for the many various memories. Those memories can be from a variety of different stages of the seniors life and personal history. These unique memories are stored mostly in the Hippocampus but also in other parts of the brain. Even brilliant neurologist are conflicted on exactly were and how these memories are retrieved and stored. All we know is that by revisiting these artifacts and images from the past it brings great joy to the senior.