Reminiscence pages -

"Reminiscing promotes emotional well being
and reduces isolation, loneliness and depression" 

Memories

Who says my mind has gone away
I see my youth there every day
I replay my life where none can go
I meet the friends who've had to go

So don't tell me I'm getting old
And now must do just what I'm told
I laugh and play inside my head
And wander paths that once I tread

So when it seems I am not there
It's just a thought I cannot share
Please be patient with me when I'm slow
I might be somewhere else you know

I hope you too can store away
The memories of what we share
Then in the late days of your time
You can recall as I do mine

MEMORIES  © Bob McMillan

Memory is a remarkable gift and memories are very precious.  We all carry them on life's journey. Everything we have ever experienced is etched somewhere in our minds.

For most people the idea of becoming aged is something to be held in dread. Many have little or no communication with the elderly, apart from helping an `old lady' on or oft the bus.  But we older people are all around, and many of us have a wealth of knowledge and experiences to share, to those who care to listen.

The first selection is about Cowboys - fond memories of the B pictures at the Saturday matinees!!  I hope you enjoy it and I hope it "triggers" your memories!

Send me your memories to add to this section.

• Do you remember?
• How to start a Reminiscence project - by Doris Daly
• Street Games we used to play
• Cowboys - fond memories of the B pictures
• ABC Minors
• Dick Barton - Special Agent
• How did some of us "auld yins" survive in the 40's, 50's, 60's & 70's?
• Glasgow Memories - the poem
• Picking up the Broken Pieces of Memory - the poem
• Glasgow Skipping Songs
• Web Links for Veterans
• Links to your favourite singers of yesterday  If your favourite is not here let me know!
• Time witnesses : Memories of the last century  Stories from World War Two and the 1950's by senior citizens who lived through it..
• Ancient appliances - Courtesy of BBC

Uncovering Memories: What Is Reminiscence?

When we reminisce, we recall memories, review them, and recapture the emotions that went with them. All of us engage in this reflective process from time to time; it is a normal and vital part of growing older.

Why Is It Important for the Elderly?

In later life reminiscence takes on a more significant role: it's how older adults get in touch with things and times that were important to them. Through reminiscing they find meaning in their memories: this helps to maintain their sense of identity, builds self-esteem and helps raise the overall quality of their lives. At a time when older adults may feel vulnerable, isolated or lonely, recalling and communicating their experiences helps to improve their mental, emotional, social and sometimes physical well-being. In reminiscence, older adults have a powerful, natural resource. This book shows you how to help them use it.

Benefits of Reminiscence

Reminiscence by the elderly has all too often been devalued, regarded as a turning away from reality, living in the past and even seen as mental dysfunction. We now know, however, that exploring the past is an enriching experience which provides deep personal satisfaction as well as many other important benefits.

• Through the communication and sharing of memories, friendship and understanding are forged; this social interaction heals loneliness and isolation.
• Uncovering and reviewing their memories helps older adults find meaning and purpose in their lives.
• Reminiscence improves quality of life and well-being and raises self-esteem.
• The past is a well of strength for older adults. Drawing on it creates a feeling of security and competence.
• Reminiscence helps resolve conflicts and fears and helps older adults cope with grief and loss.
• In other times the elderly were custodians of culture, heritage, customs and traditions. By relaying family history, ethnic heritage and folklore, today's elderly fulfill a natural and important role. Through this they experience a sense of continuity and intergenerational understanding.
• For the listener, reminiscence has many rewards. There is the satisfaction of being able to help someone; the warmth in getting close to them, enjoying their stories and even learning from their wisdom and experiences. Through this the listener can see her own part in life's journey.

Who Can Benefit from Reminiscence?

The vast majority of older adults will benefit from reminiscence. It's a resource accessible to the broadest spectrum of individuals from the well elderly to those with physical, emotional and cognitive handicaps. Reminiscence is especially beneficial to persons suffering from Alzheimer's disease.

Who Can Use Reminiscence?

Anyone who has regular or repeated contact with the elderly can use reminiscence-family, friends, visitors, social workers, activity directors, occupational therapists, nurses, doctors, clergy and volunteers. Reminiscence can be used in the home, hospital, social centre, church, day care and rest home-where ever older adults spend time.

What Is My Role In Reminiscence?

The listener's role in reminiscence is two-fold:

• Encourage the older adult to share memories.
• Pay active and genuine attention to the reminiscer as memories unfold.