Adaptive autobiographical memory in younger and older adults: The indirect association of integrative and instrumental reminiscence with depressive symptoms

Abstract

Despite the established effectiveness of reminiscence-based interventions for depression, little research exists into the pathways through which specific reminiscence functions are related to depressive symptoms. Drawing on theory of the mechanisms of change in cognitive-reminiscence therapy, the current study tests the hypothesised indirect associations of adaptive integrative and instrumental reminiscence functions with depressive symptoms and whether these relationships might differ among younger and older adults. Questionnaires were completed by a large community sample of the Australian population. Multiple mediation models were tested in two groups: younger adults (n = 730, M age = 52.24, SD=9.84) and older adults (n = 725, M age= 73.59, SD=6.29). Results were consistent across age groups, indicating that there was direct relationship between these reminiscence functions and depressive symptoms, but that integrative reminiscence is indirectly associated with depressive symptoms through meaning in life, self-esteem, and optimism, and that instrumental reminiscence is indirectly associated with depressive symptoms through primary control and self-efficacy. This study provides support for the relationships between constructs underlying the proposed mechanisms of change in cognitive-reminiscence therapy for the treatment of depression, and suggests these relationships are similar for younger and older adults.

Do Personal Strengths and Weaknesses Impact Subjective Well-being of Elderly?

“…It is the more substantial issue presently (Teh et al, 2014). Amzat and Jayawardena (2015) supported that Malaysian elders are suffering social isolation and loneliness, particularly emotional loneliness that effect psychologically in terms of psychological wellbeing and self-esteem (Hallford et al, 2013;Latiffah et al, 2005).…”

Spiritual reminiscence therapy for older people with loneliness, anxiety and depression living in a residential aged care facility, Malaysia: The effectiveness and older people’s experiences

“…Until now, RT has been widely practised for older people in RACFs including in Malaysia. RT is a worthwhile therapy because it provides a supportive environment (Liu et al, 2007;Wang et al, 2005) and assists older people to cope with life (Cappeliez & Robitaille, 2010;Hallford et al, 2012). Despite this practice and acceptance of the benefits of RT, the effectiveness of this approach remains uncertain, particularly for older people with loneliness, anxiety and depression.…”

“…Reminiscence lacks comprehensiveness RT offers a platform for older people to find meaning in their own lives (Chueh & Chang, 2014;Hallford, Mellor, & Cummins, 2012). The process of sharing memories is not only focused on the stories, but also related to the feelings behind the memories, whether positive or negative (Mackinlay & Trevitt, 2010).…”

“…It assists older people in coping with bitter memories and to learn how to deal with the memories (Cappeliez & Robitaille, 2010;Hallford et al, 2012) and feelings of self-competence (Djukanović, Carlsson, & Peterson, 2016). That is, this strategy helps older people to modify their perception towards bitter memories and learn to cope with them.…”

“…The aim of integrative reminiscence is to develop positive self-esteem and links between past and current memories, as well as energizing negative memories (Hallford et al, 2012). Instrumental reminiscence therapy examines how past events have been resolved to enhance self-esteem (Wong & Watt, 1991).…”