Dementia is an umbrella term and there are more than 200 types of dementia, the most common being Alzheimer’s and vascular dementia.

Why is reminiscence important for people with dementia? 

Memory loss associated with dementia can mean that people believe they are living in a different era of their lives; they may mistake their son for their husband or believe they are late for picking their children up from school. This can cause confusion and anxiety. Because all of our experiences and memories are unique to us, the experience of dementia is also unique. It is important that we try to understand each person’s reality. Using objects or taking part in meaningful activities which connect a person to their past (reminiscence) can have a positive, calming effect.