Tapping into the Power of Emotional Memories

Clinical Course
2 CE credits
Location: LIVE, Interactive Webinar

Course Description: When recalling past events, we may struggle to remember specific details, yet the emotions associated with those experiences often remain vivid. For individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease, emotional memories persist much longer than less emotionally charged short- or long-term memories. These memories can be triggered by the five senses—smells, sights, sounds, tastes, and touch—transporting the person back to the original experience as if it were happening in the present. This clinical course will explain how emotions, whether positive or negative, outlast factual memories and shape the lived experience of individuals with Alzheimer’s or dementia. Understanding this allows care partners and professionals to adapt their approaches by focusing on generating positive emotional experiences and recognizing the enduring influence of emotional life. Participants will also learn practical strategies to tap into emotional memories using the five senses to strengthen connection, enhance communication, and promote overall wellbeing. This live interactive webinar encourages engagement throughout. Attendees may ask questions, participate in instructor-led discussions, engage in case vignette analysis, and take part in a Q&A session at the end.

From this course attendees will be able to:

1. Explain how emotional memories persist longer than factual memories in individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease.
2. Describe how the five senses can trigger emotional memories and influence behavior and experience.
3. Apply strategies to generate positive emotions and enhance the emotional wellbeing of individuals with dementia.
4. Adapt care practices to acknowledge and honor the emotional life of individuals with dementia as a central part of their experience.