Author: Memory Detecting

Reminiscing with seniors who have dementia plays a crucial role in their emotional well-being and cognitive engagement. While conducting the Memory Detecting local program you can see seniors light up when discussing some of the vintage artifacts that they recall. While dementia can impact short-term memory, long-term memories often remain intact, providing a bridge to the past.

 There is nothing better than to have a senior tell you a detailed story about when they played marbles, or drank a cold Moxie soda with their friends on a warm summer day just like it was yesterday. 

Engaging in conversations about familiar things and experiences can bring comfort and joy to seniors, reducing feelings of confusion and isolation. For caregivers, these moments can foster a deeper connection, offering insights into the individual’s life history and identity. 

Reminiscence therapy, through activities like discussing vintage items,  looking at old photos or listening to music from their past, can stimulate cognitive functions and promote positive emotions. This practice not only strengthens relationships but also improves the quality of life for those with dementia, helping them feel valued and understood. 

Ultimately, reminiscing serves as a meaningful way to honor their lives and maintain a sense of dignity and continuity, even as their present abilities change.

Want to become a Certified Dementia Care Practitioner? 

Take the Alzheimer’s Disease & Dementia Care Seminar. 

This is the seminar required by the NCCDP to become a Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP).  To become a CDP join us for one of the upcoming Zoom seminars. 

Your  CDP designation is a great way to Enhance Your Care & Your Career all in one day guaranteed. 

As you know, sometimes patients with dementia can exhibit behaviors that can make caring for them difficult. This is a major topic during the Certified Dementia Practitioner program (CDP) It can be difficult to effectively divert attention from a person with dementia. For the best outcome the approach should be gentle and considerate. Here are some strategy reminders:

• Use calm, clear communication: Speak slowly and simply, avoiding overwhelming the person with dementia.
• Introduce a favorite activity: Engage them in a familiar task, such as coloring or listening to music they enjoy.
• Redirect to a pleasant topic: Shift their focus to a positive subject, like a memory they fondly recall. Reminiscing with seniors with dementia can be very beneficial. 
• Incorporate physical movement: Take a short walk or gently guide them to another room for a change of scenery. 
• Offer sensory stimulation: Present an object with an interesting texture, sound, or smell to engage their senses.
• Stay patient and calm: Avoid arguing or correcting them, as this can escalate frustration. Staying positive can be a challenge at times but this is by far the best approach. 

The ultimate goal is to create a peaceful environment that keeps their mind engaged without creating any unneccasry anxiety and disturbances.

If you would like to learn more about best practices when working with your seniors with dementia take the Alzheimer’s Disease & Dementia Care Seminar. This is the seminar required by the NCCDP to become a Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP).   

Your  CDP designation is a great way to Enhance Your Care & Your Career all in one day guaranteed.