Dementia is a debilitating disease that affects millions of people worldwide.

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, one in ten people aged 65 and older suffer from Alzheimer’s Disease, a type of dementia that destroys memory and cognitive function.

While there is no known cure for dementia, there are ways to help slow its progression. One method that is gaining traction is using nostalgia to help combat the effects of dementia.

What is Nostalgia?

Nostalgia is a sentimental longing or wistful affection for the past, typically for a period or place with happy personal associations.

Many people experience feelings of nostalgia when they hear a song from their youth, smell a familiar scent, or see an object from their childhood.

Nostalgia is often associated with positive feelings and pleasant memories. It can be a powerful tool when used in therapy for those who suffer from dementia.

How Does Nostalgia Help with Dementia?

When someone with dementia hears a familiar song or smells a familiar scent, it can trigger memories from their past. These memories may be vivid and clear, despite the person’s cognitive decline.

In a study published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, researchers found that listening to music from a person’s youth can improve mood, cognition, and even physical coordination in those with dementia.

Another study found that reminiscing about past experiences could improve the well-being and quality of life for people with dementia. Nostalgia can make someone feel more connected to their past and their sense of identity.

70s Nostalgia: A Powerful Tool to Help with Dementia

The 1970s was a decade of great change in the world, and it was a time that many people with dementia may remember fondly. The 70s were a time of disco music, bell-bottom pants, and peace signs.

It was a time of great social upheaval, and many people who lived through it have strong memories and emotions associated with that time.

Using 70s nostalgia as a tool in dementia therapy can be a powerful way to connect with those who suffer from the disease. Here are some ways to incorporate 70s nostalgia into your dementia therapy:.

1. Listen to 70s Music

Music is a powerful tool in dementia therapy, and listening to songs from the 70s can help trigger memories from that time.

You can make a playlist of popular songs from the 70s, or play albums from popular artists like ABBA, The Bee Gees, or Fleetwood Mac.

2. Watch 70s TV Shows or Movies

Watching TV shows or movies from the 70s can also help trigger memories for someone with dementia. You can watch popular shows like Happy Days, The Brady Bunch, or The Love Boat.

You can also watch classic movies from the 70s like Jaws, Grease, or Star Wars.

3. Play 70s Board Games or Card Games

Playing games from the 70s can be a fun way to engage with someone who has dementia. You can play classic board games like Monopoly or Operation, or play card games like UNO or Old Maid.

4. Look at 70s Memorabilia

Looking at old magazines, pictures, or other memorabilia from the 70s can also be a great way to trigger memories and engage with someone who has dementia.

You can look at old family photo albums, or old magazines like National Geographic or Life Magazine.

5. Use 70s Scented Candles or Essential Oils

Smell is a powerful trigger for memory, and using 70s scented candles or essential oils can help engage someone with dementia. Scents like patchouli, sandalwood, or lavender were popular scents in the 70s and can help trigger memories from that time.

Conclusion

Dementia is a devastating disease, but there are ways to help slow its progression. Using nostalgia, specifically 70s nostalgia, can be a powerful tool in dementia therapy.

Listening to 70s music, watching 70s TV shows or movies, playing 70s board games or cards, looking at 70s memorabilia, and using 70s scented candles or essential oils can all help trigger memories and engage someone with dementia. Using these tools can help improve the quality of life for those who suffer from dementia.