Effects of olfactory stimulation on autobiographical memory in Alzheimer's disease

Gériatrie et psychologie neuropsychiatrie du vieillissement
Ophélie GlachetMohamad El Haj

Abstract

A body of research showed positive effects of olfactory stimulation on autobiographical memory. However, no research has evaluated the influence of such stimulation on autobiographical memory in Alzheimer's disease. We invited participants with Alzheimer's disease and controls to retrieve autobiographical memories when exposed to odor and in a control condition without odor. Compared to memories evoked without odors, olfactory-evoked autobiographical memories were more specific and accompanied by more subjective experience of reviviscence in patients with Alzheimer's disease. However, no such benefit was observed in control participants. Interestingly, when compared to memories evoked without odors, olfactory-evoked autobiographical memories were retrieved faster in all participants. Our findings demonstrate positive effects of olfactory stimulation on two components (specificity and reviviscence) of autobiographical retrieval in Alzheimer's disease. This study offers solid foundations for the adaptation of olfactory stimulation in nursing homes in the framework of reminiscence therapy in order to preserve the sense of identity in patients with Alzheimer's disease as long as possible.

Citations

Oct 21, 2020·Neuropsychological Rehabilitation·Ophélie Glachet, Mohamad El Haj
Mar 21, 2019·Journal of Clinical and Experimental Neuropsychology·Ophélie GlachetMohamad El Haj
Sep 19, 2019·Neural Plasticity·Rebeca Hernández-SotoFernando Peña-Ortega
Feb 9, 2021·Frontiers in Psychology·Alexandra ErnstChristopher J A Moulin
Mar 10, 2021·Journal of Clinical and Experimental Neuropsychology·Ophélie Glachet, Mohamad El Haj

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