Reminiscence Therapy and Activities for Seniors with Dementia in the Burlington County Area

Reminiscence therapy is a therapeutic practice that taps into the power of memories. It offers a unique opportunity for seniors, particularly those living with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia, to reconnect with their past experiences and find joy and comfort in cherished moments.

By engaging all five senses and immersing our members in a carefully crafted environment that replicates mid-century America, we create an atmosphere that evokes emotions, sparks conversations, and fosters a sense of belonging.

Our reminiscence therapy services use a holistic approach to engage seniors in meaningful activities that stimulate their memories and promote well-being.

Our approach is founded on the pioneering work of George G. Glenner Alzheimer’s Family Centers. Studies by the Glenner Centers and other organizations have shown that memories from one’s teenage and young adult years often remain vivid and accessible even in the face of memory loss. By incorporating music, photographs, films, food, and the overall ambiance of a bygone era, we create a familiar and inviting space where our members can reconnect with their past.

At Town Square Marlton, our facility transports members back to the middle of the 20th century: The age of Elvis, Marilyn Monroe, classic diners, the Ford Thunderbird, and so many other enduring cultural icons. Through carefully selected media, we ignite memories and encourage meaningful conversation. Each activity is tailored to the unique needs and preferences of our members, ensuring they are surrounded by peers and engaged in activities that resonate with their individual experiences.

By embracing the power of sensory experiences, we invite our members to share their stories openly. This creates an atmosphere of connection and understanding.

Reminiscence therapy offers a range of benefits that contribute to the well-being of seniors with dementia. While there is no cure for dementia at this time, and this therapeutic method does not reverse or slow memory loss itself, it has been proven to improve behaviors and cognitive function by alleviating stress and promoting emotional well-being.

Providing a space where seniors can express themselves, relieve anxieties, and connect with others enhances happiness and contributes to a better quality of life. Additionally, the reduced stress resulting from reminiscence therapy leads to further health benefits such as better-quality sleep and more stable mood.

Another dimension to the benefits of reminiscence therapy is affirming our members’ sense of self and the things they have accomplished throughout their lives. Older adults, particularly those with a diagnosed cognitive impairment, are at risk of withdrawing from those around them and the wider world. Reminiscence therapy addresses this by bringing people together and bolstering self-assurance.

Each of our 13 storefronts is thoughtfully curated to align with Town Square’s holistic health intervention objectives. For example, in our Craft Corner, members can explore their creativity through various mediums such as painting, pottery, and jewelry making. Rosie’s Diner provides a vibrant setting where members can socialize, dine, and enjoy delicious meals while reminiscing to the tunes of the 1950s and ’60s on a working jukebox.

Our Health Club offers senior-friendly fitness technology and programming, allowing members to engage in exercise classes like yoga and drum circles. The Starlite Theater takes members back to the glamor of Hollywood with screenings of classic movies and musicals. It’s at this storefront that our members also gather to share stories about their careers and hobbies.

By offering these varied storefront experiences, we ensure that our members can engage in activities that align with their interests, preferences, and personal well-being goals.