Themes offer opportunities for expression of thoughts, feelings, opinions. Themes provide for reminiscence Research indicates older adults prefer autobiographical and historical topics. Reminiscence produces more meaningful, self-generated material. Subject matter is guaranteed to be culturally and personally relevant. There is shared control of the communication situation.
Personal memories are powerful motivators for communication.
Opportunities for validation of life experiences and accomplishments, thereby increasing self-esteem. Social themes can be supported with a variety of interesting and relevant media materials Pictures - should be clear and not too complex or emotionally laden. Ways in which social themes and related media materials can be used to stimulate memory and communication Memory and comprehension for short paragraph material. This may be read to the person or he can read to himself. The material should be shortened to the appropriate level of difficulty.