Reminiscence and Life Review

Abstract Reminiscence and life review are significant natural coping mechanisms, and, as treatment modalities, both can help older adults find meaning through reflection on their life experiences. The appeal of reminiscence and life review for geriatric social workers and other mental health professionals, is that the interventions are non-judgmental, non-stigmatizing, and easy to provide to older adults. This chapter is divided into four sections. The first section addresses the theoretical background of reminiscence and life review. The second examines the efficacy of life review and reminiscence interventions for different target groups. The third section describes successful intervention methods, and the fourth discusses implications for practice in relation to several emerging issues in reminiscence and life review research.