Reminiscence Therapy - What Is Reminiscence Therapy?

What Is Reminiscence Therapy?

Reminiscence therapy makes use of life events by having participants vocally recall episodic memories from their past. It helps provide people with a sense of continuity in terms of their life events. Reminiscence therapy may take place in a group setting, individually, or in pairs depending on the aim of the treatment Reminiscence therapy can also be structured or unstructured within these configurations. While the primary aim of reminiscence therapy is to strengthen cognitive memory components, a secondary goal may be to encourage either intrapersonal development or interpersonal development. These individual needs will determine whether the therapy is conducted in a group setting or alone with a practitioner. Memories are processed chronologically starting at birth and focusing on major, significant life events. The focus is reflection, not simply recall. Reminiscence therapy may use prompts such as photographs, household items, music, or personal recordings.