What if you could use the scent of smell to greatly improve memory recall!
Smell is believed to be the most powerful memory recall device possible, especially when trying to dig up deeply hidden memories.
The reason for this is that while most of the senses need to go through other parts of the brain before reaching the memory, the nose is able to bypass this and go directly to the memory centre, making it extremely useful for recall.
So how can we use this to help someone with dementia recall a memory?
Smelling the past
If you want to help someone with dementia recall a memory from the past bring in a strongly scented item that was connected with the memory from the past. This smell can trigger the recall of the memory leading to images, sounds, and feelings from the past.
Smelling the future
A simple but effective way to use this method with someone with dementia would be if you would like them to recall new information.
You could use a strongly scented item when you are talking to them about something you want them to remember (for example an appointment with the hairdresser next week), and then leave the scented item handy for them to easily smell and the memory will easily return.
...more tips on the way....
NEW OCEANS - LIVE WELL WITH DEMENTIA!
RESERVE A PLACE ON OUR INTRODUCTION WORKSHOP!
