Nursing Assistant Monthly Copyright © 2014 Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. Memories have a positive impact. Reminiscence and life review

Copyright © 2014 Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. What is reminiscence? Remembering and sharing personal experiences to provide meaning to one's life and share wisdom  Reminiscence can happen anywhere or anytime.  Life review is a more formal process of systematically reviewing one’s life to help find meaning and resolve emotional issues. December 2014Reminiscence

Copyright © 2014 Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. The benefits of reminiscence Reminiscence can help:  Improve self-worth and self-esteem  Prevent and treat depression  Lower blood pressure  Reduce anxiety and stress  Lessen feelings of isolation and disorientation among people with dementia December 2014Reminiscence

Copyright © 2014 Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. Life review  Conducted with a trained professional  Systematically asks questions about the person’s life  Helps someone develop a greater understanding of life  Can help people come to terms with emotional events December 2014Reminiscence

Copyright © 2014 Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. Tips for beginning the conversation  Look for objects in the resident’s room to spark conversation.  Encourage family members to share details of the resident’s life.  Ask open-ended questions.  Never push a resident to share personal stories if they prefer not to, or if it seems to upset them. December 2014Reminiscence

Copyright © 2014 Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. More tips for reminiscing  When a resident shares a memory, listen attentively.  Make eye contact whenever possible.  If a resident shares a painful memory, do your best to respond with compassion. December 2014Reminiscence

Copyright © 2014 Cengage Learning. All rights reserved. Sharing your own stories  Sharing your own stories is one way to build a connection and encourage residents to share memories.  If you feel uncomfortable talking about your personal life, you are not obligated to discuss it.  If you decide to share your own experiences, keep it positive. December 2014Reminiscence