27 October 2026
With the help of a Calgary expressive art therapist, Silvera is developing a new Reminiscing Program for residents that creates special connections to others and their shared histories.
Blythe Bohonos is collaborating with Silvera to cultivate memory displays that engage residents through nostalgia. Recently, she set up “Curiosity Corners” at several supportive living communities that focused on themes including childhood play, cooking, music and everyday items from previous decades.
These displays fostered conversation and reflection with Silvera residents, employees, volunteers and families. Many of the items and discussion prompts will be included in special reminiscing kits Blythe is creating to rotate through Silvera communities.
Reminiscing creates opportunities for residents to connect and reflect on their shared life experiences through familiar objects, photographs, and engaging themes that encourage storytelling, stimulate memories, spark curiosity and promote social interaction.
During Blythe’s recent visits, residents and employees alike shared stories and memories together. Several residents brought out items from their own collections to show others, including dolls from 80 years ago and a knitting tool from over a 100 years ago, along with anecdotes and tales from their own pasts.
Reminiscing like this creates connections as residents share their experiences with others, and supports cognitive engagement and emotional well-being.
We are excited to see this program continue to grow and more reminiscing themes and displays from Blythe!