Nicole Verret

9/1/15

LEI 4724

Reminisce
Citation Source: Gimbel, J. (April 26, 2013). A review of the effectiveness of reminisce therapy
on the cognitive functioning of older adults with dementia. Retrieved from:
https://rtwiseowls.files.wordpress.com/2013/04/jacquelyn-gimbel.pdf
Equipment Needed: A room with seating for all participants, and preferably placed so all
participants can feel included, such as chairs in a circle or in a lounge space.
Activity Description: This activity requires little beyond the participants and facilitator. The
facilitator may need to conduct some research about the topic they wish to reminisce about, for
example WWII life on the home front; or the facilitator may help the group to determine the
topic for reminiscing (which may occur spontaneously). Perhaps a token, picture, or
advertisement about the specific topic may help to get the conversation started. This group is
most appropriate for older populations, and can be helpful as a way to engage individuals with
memory deficits who are at risk for isolation as Alzheimers disease progresses. This activity also
works on social and emotional expression. This is most effective in a group setting.
Leadership Considerations: This activity requires a facilitator who is comfortable starting the
conversation, and is apt to keep the conversation going without dominating it; rather guiding it.
This facilitator would need to be able to not just follow a script or list of topics, but be
knowledgeable in the area that is being reminisced about and help the conversation naturally
flow from one subject to another and expand on ones that participants are currently talking about.
Adaptations: This activity could be used with individuals who are in rehabilitation or in medical
care whom is bed bound. This could provide a positive outlet for expression and social
connection in a situation which may be otherwise isolated. This could also be useful for groups
with intellectual disabilities as a way to help facilitate interactions amongst group members who
may have difficulty initiating interactions with others but are focusing on building social skills.
Should be one page long 3 due per week.