Comparative effectiveness of reminiscence-based therapies on depressive symptoms and life satisfaction in older adults: a network meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

BACKGROUND: Previous network meta-analyses have focused on individuals with dementia or intervention delivery formats. The comparative effectiveness of reminiscence-based therapies in older adults without diagnosed mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or dementia remains unclear. This study aimed to identify which reminiscence-based therapy most effectively improves depressive symptoms and life satisfaction. METHODS: Six databases were searched from inception to 23 September 2024 and updated on 27 July 2025 for randomised controlled trials evaluating reminiscence-based interventions in older adults without MCI or dementia. A frequentist network meta-analysis with random effects was conducted. Standardised mean differences (SMDs) and P-scores were used to estimate and rank treatment effects. RESULTS: Thirty-three trials involving 2512 participants were included. Narrative therapy (SMD = -1.22, 95% confidence interval [CI] = -1.83, -0.60; P-score = .81) and dignity therapy (SMD = -1.28, 95% CI = -2.26, -0.30; P-score = .81) demonstrated the largest reductions in depressive symptoms. For life satisfaction, narrative therapy ranked highest (SMD = 1.13, 95% CI = 0.24, 2.01; P-score = .89), followed by reminiscence therapy and life review. Longer interventions (≥8 weeks) produced greater improvements in life satisfaction (SMD = 1.09, 95% CI = 0.48, 1.70) than shorter ones (SMD = 0.36, 95% CI = 0.16, 0.56). CONCLUSION: Narrative and dignity therapies demonstrated the largest reductions in depressive symptoms, with comparable effect sizes and ranking metrics. Narrative therapy ranked highest for life satisfaction. Longer intervention duration was associated with enhanced life satisfaction outcomes. These findings suggest that reminiscence-based interventions may represent practical and feasible approaches to supporting psychological well-being in older adults. REGISTRATION: PROSPERO (CRD42024623272).