reminiscence ... what's it for?

I found a really thoughtful summary of what reminiscence therapy is all about on the www.seniorsnetwork.co.uk, written by Doris M Daly RGN. Here it is: 

                                "Without a memory there is no person, there is no selfhood. 
                                        A person exists from having lived through the past"

The article continues to list the important features of reminiscence therapy:

• Reminiscence seeks to establish the individual's self-worth by providing an opportunity to recall and recount their journey through life.
• It reinforces their image of themselves as worthwhile individuals, and establishes their personal identity in the society in which they have invested their lives.
• Age culture or class is not a barrier. It exercises the memory cells of the brain, a necessity to keep it honed and healthy, even if some of those cells have been damaged or diminished.
• It provides a pathway for growth and extends self-knowledge.
• It aids group building and provides a bridge for moving towards the wayfarers who share our great and wonderful sojourn here on earth.
• It affects a shift in consciousness to move on and get on with life. It resolves old conflicts. It is a catharsis.

                                          "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.

Please find more on the seniors network here
http://www.seniorsnetwork.co.uk/memories/reminiscence.htm