Dogs and photos could hold the key to unlocking memory

27 February 2006

A Monash University study will combine pet therapy with old photographs in an attempt to reduce agitation and improve memory in aged dementia sufferers.

Ms Linda Marston, a research fellow in the Department of Psychology, is investigating whether visits from dogs accompanied by volunteers, combined with conversations inspired by old photographs (a feature of "reminiscence" therapy), could help people with mild to moderate aged dementia.

Reminiscence therapy reinforces the remaining memory function of people with aged dementia.

Studies have also shown that companion animals help facilitate conversation, encourage increased social behaviour and calm aged dementia sufferers following as few as three weeks of bi-weekly visits.

Ms Marston said combining the two approaches would enhance the benefits of reminiscence therapy.

"In dementia sufferers the memories still exist, but cannot be accessed," Ms Marston said. "However, the use of alternative pathways to memory such as pictures, touch, music or scents can unlock those memories. We will be using albums of old photographs to do this, while the interaction with a pet will not only provide tactile stimulation but help maintain a person's focus on the 'here and now', encouraging social interaction and having a calming effect," she said.

The study will use photographs from different time periods to stimulate conversation about life events. Although the photos may not relate directly to the person, the dog handlers, Delta PetPartners, will use them to encourage interaction about fashions, events and other distinctive items in the photos and so get patients talking about similar experiences in their own lives.

The study, being conducted in Sydney nursing homes, aims to maximise the health benefits of organised patient visits by volunteers. If successful, the program could be widely implemented and, because the program is volunteer-based, it would be ensured long-term sustainability and cost-effectiveness for nursing homes.

Old photographs are still being sought for the study, anyone who can provide images from the 1930s, '40s, '50s or '60s should contact Ms Marston on linda.marston@med.monash.edu.au.

For more information contact Ms Diane Squires, Media Communications on +61 3 9905 315 or 0417 603 400. Photographs are available.