Often family photos have been placed in albums or boxes that may or may not be labeled. Your mom or dad may have stowed these family mementos away many years ago. In fact, it’s possible you have never seen many of the relatives and friends of your parent’s past. These photos are a link to their past and these old pictures may trigger memories in dementia patients!

Pictures Can Trigger Memories for Dementia Patients

Studies show that the aging brain loses short-term memory before long-term.  If your mom or dad is in the early stages of dementia they may not remember what they had for breakfast today. However, they may surprise you with what they remember as they start scrolling through old photos and creating a collage. Your parent may look at an old photo and it may trigger a memory for them!  Getting the conversation started is priceless, and it’s rewarding for you to learn family history.  This may also help you and your loved one feel reconnected, as they tell you stories of their past.

Just when you think your parent’s memory is locked away and you may never connect again, an old picture or piece of artwork may be the piece that triggers another memory. You can also create a collage with mom or dad, bringing comfort to your parent in life and to you after they are gone.

Take the time to record the stories you mother or father tells you about the people in the pictures, and in the future when you need the comfort of your parent’s voice, you will have it to play back.

Contact Us

Looking for companionship at home? Give us a call at (239) 510-7761 to set up a free consultation in the Fort Myers, FL area.