Print and present this handy list of over 70 questions when doing cognitive stimulation therapy! Reminiscing is an evidence based approach to improve cognition with people living with dementia.

What is Cognitive Stimulation Therapy (CST) ?

CST is an evidence-based approach designed to engage and stimulate individuals with dementia by encouraging social interaction and cognitive activities.

One CST approach is Reminiscence Therapy.

What is Reminiscence Therapy?

Reminiscence Therapy is the stimulation of all five senses to bring up memories of the past. Sharing photos, pictures, smelling familiar scents, touching familiar objects or hearing music from the past can all bring back memories.

Why does it work?

With dementia, short term memory deteriorates, while long term memory remains. Reminiscing is a way to bring up those long term memories, sharing and validating each persons life and history.

Benefits of Reminiscence Therapy:

Reducing depression: Reminiscing brings back happy memories, reminding a person of celebrations, life events, and other mood boosting occasions.

Improving communication: people with dementia often lose the ability to communicate. Reminiscing brings up emotions, and gives them familiar and relevant topics to share in a meaningful way.

Improved self esteem: Aging and disease often diminish a persons sense of self worth. Reminiscing allows people to reflect on and share their proud moments and many accomplishments.

Highlights:

· Can be written or presented verbally

· Use in a group or 1:1

· Questions can be tailored to individuals

· Use as family/staff education

· Questions facilitate communication and cognition

· Large print (18 pt font or higher) to accommodate visual and hearing impairments

By Kristina Pfennig, MS CCC-SLP