Reminiscence and Life Review

Chapter 12, “Reminiscence and Life Review: Evidence-Based Practice,” examines meta-analyses, systematic reviews, and RCTs of these two related therapeutic approaches, which are commonly used to enhance well-being, promote cognitive functioning, and mitigate emotional difficulties of later life. All studies reported some positive outcome of reminiscence and life review interventions. The greatest evidence exists for reduction in geriatric depression, as this outcome was evaluated in the largest number of reviews. Stronger support was found for the use of life review with older adults who have higher levels of cognitive functioning. Although a subset of reviews favored life review over reminiscence, this difference was not reported across the board. Study results suggest that both approaches are useful and that group and individual interventions are effective. Variations in administration of these interventions, however, were extensive and make interpretation of the efficacy of a particular approach or style of reminiscence and life review difficult.