The effects of reminiscence on psychological well-being in older adults: A meta-analysis

Indicated Prevention

“…In life review interventions, older adults discuss their life and the evaluation of each important period in their life with a trained professional. Several randomized controlled studies and meta-analyses have shown that these interventions are effective in reducing existing depressive symptoms [ 23 ], as well as on enhancing life-satisfaction and emotional well-being [ 24 ]. Although the effects have not yet been examined in target groups in which subthreshold depression was established with a diagnostic interview, life review seems to be an excellent intervention for indicated prevention, because of its low threshold for participation, because the stigmatizing word "depression" is not needed, and because no understanding of negative thoughts or other complex psychological issues are necessary for participating successfully in this intervention.…”

Reminiscence therapy: development of a program for institutionalized older people with cognitive impairment

“…To this end, RT uses old materials (newspapers, household utensils, photos, songs) to stimulate memory and allow them to share and value their experiences (Subramaniam & Woods, 2012;Webster et al, 2010). At an international level, the process of development and validation of RT programs used in controlled studies is not always clearly described, which is a potential methodological limitation that may explain the inconsistent results found in different studies on the effectiveness of RT programs (Bohlmeijer et al, 2007;Cotelli, Manenti, & Zanetti, 2012;Stinson, 2009). Even in recent studies on the development of a high-quality intervention program (e.g., Stinson, 2009), the process is based on theoretical studies and recommendations which have not been validated regarding compliance and applicability.…”

“…Literature describes the privileged role of non-pharmacological interventions in multidimensional models, by integrating the cognitive, functional, behavioral, and affective dimensions. In fact, the significant impact, effectiveness, and health gains obtained through the implementation of structured reminiscence therapy (RT) programs in older people with cognitive impairment are particularly relevant, namely decreased disorientation and depression, and improved well-being and cognitive function (Bohlmeijer, Roemer, Cuijpers, & Smit, 2007;Subramaniam & Woods, 2012;Webster, Bolhmeijer, & Westerhof, 2010). Evidence shows that RT is an important therapeutic strategy for the empowerment of people with NCDs, providing moments of pleasure with dignity and a purpose in life.…”

Mindful Living in Older Age: a Pilot Study of a Brief, Community-Based, Positive Aging Intervention

“…The rationale here is that while 'ruminative reminiscing' may be problematic, reminiscence itself can be a valued activity, e.g., as a way to experience and construct a sense of meaning in life (Bohlmeijer et al, 2007). Thus, it was hypothesised that facilitating a mindful reminiscence might prevent the activity from becoming ruminative, therefore enabling it to remain potentially beneficial.…”