Think back to a particularly emotional incident in your past. Was it a positive or a negative experience? Do you remember the details? There is a mental phenomenon called “emotional memory.” It is the ability to recall events and experiences that are linked to the emotions associated with them. South Mountain Memory Care, a memory care community serving the Allentown and Lehigh Valley, PA, area, sees emotional memory as a way to bring comfort and familiarity to Alzheimer’s and dementia residents.
Studies have shown that individuals are more likely to remember emotional information than factual information. In other words, even among dementia patients, we are more likely to remember the emotions involved in a memory than the actual details, such as times, places, and people. Generally, people tend to remember negative events more than neutral or positive events. This recall of sad or tragic events can manifest itself as negative behavior in later years, especially as the brain suffers from dementia. But positive memories also live beneath the surface and can be stimulated to benefit the patient.
What are the benefits of stimulating emotional memory for dementia patients?
Emotional memory can be used to connect with residents on a deeper level in order to bring them some comfort, joy, and a sense of stability and meaning. Recalling pleasant memories can renew a sense of dignity and worth, and help improve mood. Like drops of honey in a cup of bitter tea, pleasant memories, rich with good feelings despite lacking details, can sweeten a life.
How can we stimulate emotional memory for dementia patients?
- While asking a dementia resident if they remember this or that can frustrate them, asking them to just talk about past events, especially positive ones, can be helpful
- Bring along familiar music. Music is a strong tool to unearth memories and improve mood.
- Familiar objects can silently trigger emotions: photos, mementos, fragrances, knick-knacks, even a familiar snack—whatever works.
- Make sure you are in a safe, supportive environment where your loved one won’t feel intimidated, embarrassed, or distracted.
If your loved one can’t remember what happened a few days, weeks, or months ago, don’t despair. It’s possible that those emotion-packed memories from times past are still there, waiting to be reawakened with love and patience!
What makes the South Mountain Memory Care community unique?
Whatever the cause or level of your or your loved one’s memory issues, South Mountain Memory Care, with our unique culture, “small house” model, and abundance of certified caregivers, offers you the peace of mind of knowing your loved one will be cared for as if they were our family—which they are!
South Mountain Memory Care is committed to providing individualized, compassionate care to support our residents in achieving a well-balanced lifestyle. We strive to allow our residents to remain independent while emphasizing safety. Our focus is to enrich their life—mind, body, and spirit—by bringing new initiatives into their day-to-day regimen while maintaining the activities they find comfort in. South Mountain Memory Care offers the peace of mind you deserve. When it comes to those you care so deeply about, we understand because we care, too.