The use of family history in dementia

Using family history to have a meaningful conversation for those with dementia. People suffering with dementia and memory loss talk about their parents and siblings more than about their own children; they talk about the more distant past. Older memories which have been recalled or spoken about more often are more established than newer memories. Exploring the family history of the person who has dementia, in relation to the people they knew when they were younger, assists in provoking those memories and creates meaningful discussions and conversations bringing purpose and comfort to the interaction.