A Journey Back in Time: Therapy for Dementia in a 1960s Town

In a remarkable therapy center in Southern California, a whole town from the 1960s has been recreated inside a warehouse to facilitate reminiscence therapy for individuals with dementia. Called Glen Town Square, it's the first of its kind in the U.S., offering a nostalgic environment where residents can engage with familiar settings like a diner and a barber shop. This method has proven especially beneficial for those with memory loss, as it taps into their strongest memories, providing comfort and joy. The center was initially developed by George and Joy Klinger in the early 1980s and has evolved to support not just the individuals with dementia but also their family caregivers who are often overwhelmed and distressed.