Metasynthesis of Patients’ Perspectives About Reminiscence in Dementia Care
Western Journal of Nursing Research
Abu Khait, A., Shellman, J., et al. (2020).
Western Journal of Nursing Research, 42(10), 852-866.
This systematic review investigates patient experiences with reminiscence therapy for dementia care in adults with a primary diagnosis of dementia of any kind.
No funding received
2005 to 2019
Published qualitative studies and unpublished dissertations and theses that explore patients’ experiences. Excludes quantitative studies.
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Meaningful reminiscence activities that targeted preserved capabilities and hidden strengths of an individual resulted in positive experiences and enjoyment for adults with dementia.
A meta-synthesis of studies investigating reminiscence activities for individuals with dementia found that these interventions increased: <br />
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #333333;">practice opportunities for verbal and nonverbal communication skills;</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #333333;">social interaction stimulation;</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #333333;">emotional awareness of loss and grief related to functional and cognitive declines; </span><span style="color: #333333;">and </span></li>
<li><span style="color: #333333;">opportunities for developing inner strengths, coping mechanisms, and self-confidence to adapt to changes later in life.</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="color: #333333;">The authors note limitations in the findings due to a lack of agreement on the definition of reminiscence interventions and varying diagnostic criteria for identifying dementia.</span>
