Journal of Wellbeing Management and Applied Psychology (웰빙융합연구)

Korea Wellbeing Convergence Association (한국웰빙융합학회)
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Effects of a Synesthetic Visual Reminiscence Program on Cognition and Empathy in Older Adults

  • Se-Nam OH (Korean Art Psychotherapy Association, South Gyeongsang Province Branch) ;
  • Meong-Heui KANG (Masan University)
  • Received : 2025.11.15
  • Accepted : 2025.12.01
  • Published : 2025.12.30
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Abstract

Purpose: This pilot study investigated the effects of a synesthetic visual cue-based reminiscence program on cognitive function and empathic expression in older adults residing in long-term care facilities. Methods: A total of eight sessions were conducted with an experimental group (n = 4) receiving a multisensory reminiscence intervention, and a control group (n = 4) receiving standard reminiscence activities. Pre- and post-intervention cognitive function was assessed using the Cognitive Impairment Screening Test (CIST). Empathic expression was evaluated through qualitative observation of verbal and non-verbal behaviors during sessions. Results: Compared to the control group, the experimental group demonstrated statistically significant improvements in attention, language, and executive function (p < .05). Additionally, participants in the experimental group exhibited increased frequency and intensity of empathic responses, including spontaneous sharing, facial expressions, and gestures. Conclusion: The findings suggest that a reminiscence program incorporating synesthetic visual cues may serve as an effective non-pharmacological intervention to enhance both cognitive performance and emotional engagement in institutionalized older adults. Despite the small sample size, results support the feasibility of integrating multisensory strategies into dementia care. Future studies with larger, more diverse samples are recommended to validate and expand upon these findings.

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