Autobiographical memory and the self are inextricably intertwined, however, this has led to the erroneous belief that loss of memory in dementia results in a loss of self. While autobiographical memory dysfunction is common in dementia, not all memories are affected equally. Indeed, mounting evidence reveals a rich tapestry of self-referential information that promotes a sense of self in the individual. In this talk, I will synthesise the evidence to date regarding profiles of autobiographical loss and sparing in dementia syndromes, with a view to informing targeted interventions geared to the strengths of the individual.

For older people receiving aged care, reminiscing about the past with non-family members may provide important cognitive and emotional benefits. We adopted well-established principles of “elaborative reminiscing” across two intervention programs. In Study 1, adolescents used elaborative reminiscing techniques to seek older adults’ life stories. Significant benefits for intergenerational connection emerged. In Study 2, care staff in aged care homes were taught conversational tools for eliciting life memories during routine care. Benefits for conversation quality and connection are emerging. In this talk we discuss implications for person-centred and relationship-based care. We also identify barriers and facilitators to implementation in practice.

Autobiographical memory loss is an early, debilitating symptom of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). While sensory stimuli like music can aid recall, research has primarily focused on individual memories, overlooking complex aspects like narrating one’s life story, crucial for self-understanding and identity. This study examined whether nostalgia films - short films with multiple references to participants’ youth - could enhance life-story recall in individuals with AD and healthy older adults. Results showed that film-viewing improved the specificity and detail of life narratives in both groups. These findings suggest applications for dementia care, particularly reminiscence therapy to enhance well-being and strengthen self-identity.

Assistive technologies promise exciting potential to help people living with dementia complete daily tasks, socialise, and participate in meaningful activities. Despite this, uptake of assistive technologies by people with dementia is low. In an interdisciplinary team of cognitive scientists, software and biomedical engineers, and people with lived experience, we have collaborated to design a new memory assistant device for people with dementia that leverages retained procedural memory and familiarity from the reminiscence bump period. We report a series of studies that test how people with dementia use a familiar, intuitive device, and evidence of benefits for daily activities and independence.

This discussion of the four symposium presentations will synthesize the findings, drawing connections between the various approaches discussed. I highlight how each intervention—whether through elaborative reminiscing, nostalgia films, or assistive technology—demonstrates the potential of applying cognitive memory science in practical, real-world contexts. I also outline a broader research agenda, advocating for more interdisciplinary collaboration to expand these approaches and to address gaps in the current understanding of memory in dementia.