We all have our own unique life history, and it is our memory that records, stores, and retrieves these life experiences. When we reminisce, we share these life experiences, they are our stories from the past. We have both short-term and long-term memories enabling us to recall things from our recent past and things from many years ago. Typically, a person with dementia is more able to recall things from many years ago than recent memories which is why reminiscing about positive events can bring a sense of joy and happiness. We can also stimulate memories from all our senses, this is particularly important for people with dementia. Looking at an old photograph, an object to touch, a song to listen to even a smell or taste can take someone back in time often to a very specific memory.

A great example of this was shared on the Good News Network recently. A veteran of World War II, with dementia, got to relive his career by riding in a retro ambulance and donning the old uniform which opened the floodgates of precious memories. Albert Gibbs, who worked on ambulances in London for a quarter-century, was visited by two paramedics in a 1960s ambulance, wearing familiar grey uniforms. They were dispatched to a care home in Essex where Gibbs lives, so the great-grandfather could relive his days as a medic.

Paramedics Craig Henty and Terence Thomson drove up in an original 1967 Morris Wadhams ambulance, complete with period uniforms, that instantly took Albert right back to the old days when he was based in East London. “I wore the same uniform and the same hat,” Albert exclaimed, as his memories sparked details. “I recognize your badge. It’s from the north-east sector, where I used to work. I was stationed at Ilford, but sometimes also worked in Romford.” He also recalled some important moments from his 25-year career, saying, “I delivered five babies and saved a person who fell under a train. Elaine, Albert’s daughter, said: “That was a huge part of my dad’s life – it was moving to help him relive it. As he talked and engaged, more memories were coming out.” 

If you have a friend, loved one or neighbour with dementia and sometime struggle to connect focus on positive memories from the past, the experience doesn’t have to be as extravagant as Albert’s, just listening to a favourite song or looking through a photo album together can have real benefits.