Drawing on early memories may help dementia sufferers

THE positive effect of reminiscence therapy on the quality of life of people with dementia in long-stay care has been shown in a new report from NUI Galway.
The report is the result of a major trial undertaken over the course of three years and involving over 300 dementia sufferers. At its simplest, reminiscence is recalling an individual’s past memories and experiences, often through prompts such as photographs, music and familiar household items.
“Reminiscence is increasingly seen as important in the care and support of people with dementia, given its potential to draw on early memories, which often remain intact for people with dementia, thereby highlighting the person’s preserved abilities rather than any cognitive impairment,” explained Professor Eamon O’Shea of the Irish Centre for Social Gerontology at NUI Galway.
He said more attention is being paid to the role of psychosocial interventions in the care of people with dementia.
“The results confirm the importance of a person-centred approach to the care of people with dementia in long-stay care settings. There are a range of psychosocial interventions, such as reminiscence therapy and art,” he added.
Fifteen years ago Professor Eamon O’Shea wrote the first Action Plan for Dementia for Ireland and he has been influential in preparing the ground for the new National Strategy on Dementia, which will be published by the Government in the coming months.