Senior memory care in Kansas City uses reminiscing as therapy for people with Alzheimer’s and dementia by turning daily activities into memorable and meaningful events through the use and stimulation of sensory perception. Studies have shown that sensory therapy can boost mood and reduce agitation. Through sight, sound, smell, taste, and touch, looking at pictures, singing a song, cooking together, or talking about an event helps seniors reflect on the past and look forward to the future. There are several ways in which senior memory care in Kansas City encourages reflections and renewal through reminiscing and sensory therapy.

Reminiscence therapy is often used for patients with dementia and depression to improve their overall quality of life. Reminiscing with a senior, discussing the highlights of the past year and what they are looking forward to in 2021 is a beneficial tool that senior memory care in Kansas City can use.

There are several ways in which senior memory care in Kansas City encourages reflections and renewal through reminiscing and sensory therapy.

Caregivers may not know much about the lives of residents and can help bring forth happy memories of when they were young, living a vibrant, full life. Looking at old photo albums and talking about the people and events they see can be a way for caregivers to get to know seniors. For seniors, seeing familiar places and faces will prompt memories and stories and can elicit conversations. Photos from weddings, graduations, family vacations and the like can trigger happy memories.

Other ways in which caregivers can encourage seniors is to talk to them about their favorite movies from days gone by. Many seniors remember certain movies that impacted them in their youth. Talking about the first movie they saw in a theater or on a first date and the like can elevate their mood and generate feelings of hope and goodwill.

Asking seniors to share memories of special past holidays helps someone with memory loss to relive special moments. Ask if they had a favorite ornament for the tree, or a special tradition, such as baking cookies with their mother, for instance. For those who are physically able, try recreating some of their specific memories.

By playing music that is special to residents, senior memory care in Kansas City can help to bring back positive memories, as well. Listening to old tunes from their youth, or from special occasions in their past, can give them feelings of joy and fulfillment.  

Many seniors bring favorite mementos from their homes and talking about them is an effective way to trigger memories. Ask them about the story behind the object, how and when they got it, and what makes it special to them.

Sharing memories can provide laughter and entertainment for caregivers, family members, and aging residents. When seniors are engaged with others, talking about their past experiences, it distracts them from worrying about their health and limitations. It increases the senior’s self-esteem and helps maintain balance in their life. 

Senior memory care in Kansas City offers a variety of opportunities for our residents with memory loss to reminisce with others. After remembering happy memories, seniors are often brighter and smile more, and have a happier, more positive outlook for their future. For more information about senior memory care in Kansas City, visit our website or call us at Clover Care Home, 913-991-2605.