On Wednesday of this week a jointly hosted event by the Centre for Ageing Research and Development in Ireland (CARDI) and the Reminiscence Network Northern Ireland (RNNI), gathered top researchers from across Ireland and the UK to present their latest findings from reminiscence focused research.

It was a packed and diverse programme both in terms of themes and disciplines (Nursing, Medical Gerontology, Social Work, Psychology, Computer Science and Speech Therapy). Contributors highlighted the different ways of conducting reminiscence research from using traditional oral history techniques, life history books to making use of You Tube to help aid positive memories. 

Researchers throughout the day demonstrated the use and benefits of reminiscence in range of different settings as well as with individuals, larger groups and communities.

A reoccurring theme at the seminar was how reminiscing can utilise people's ability to recall the past when they have trouble discussing or remembering the present.  Our memory not only provides a record of past experience, but also locates us in personal time -music, places, pictures and even tastes can spark memories – both positive and negative.

Most people enjoy the odd trip down memory lane, but research presented showed that reminiscing can be good for your health and well being.  Reminiscing, however, is not just an issue for individuals but for also communities. The value and role of reminiscing across and within communities is  being increasingly recognised.  In Northern Ireland reminiscence is being used as a tool to build community relations and help address the legacy of the past while others have used it to record history where the written form is less common.

The opportunity of reminiscence is that it gives older people the power to remember as they wish; reflect or review their past, and to see their memories as valuable and important.

Delegates gained a deeper understanding of the benefits of reminiscence for older people especially those with dementia, and how it can form a basis for intergenerational interaction, as well as create a chance to educate others about one’s memory and experiences of the past.

That is, of course, if we take time to listen!

A copy of the programme and presentations are available to download here:

Your Memories Matter - Showcasing Reminiscence Research (workshop presentations)

Dr. Roger O’Sullivan

Director