9. The Power of Memories

At a daycare center for senior citizens in western Japan, staff interview elderly people and write down their memories of long ago. Many who come to the center have dementia. They may not remember recent events but can vividly recall things from bygone days. The memories of a hometown now at the bottom of a lake, harsh experiences on the battlefield, and other precious stories can serve as valuable documents for future generations. An unexpected benefit of the activity is helping activate the brain and slowing the progress of dementia.