Reminiscence in dementia: A concept analysis

Abstract

This paper is a report of an analysis of the concept of reminiscence in dementia and highlights its uses as a therapeutic intervention used on individuals with dementia. No single definition of reminiscence exists in healthcare literature; however, definitions offered have similar components. The term life review is commonly used when discussing reminiscence; however, both terms are quite different in their goals, theory base and content. This concept analysis identified reminiscence as a process which occurs in stages, involving the recalling of early life events and interaction between individuals. The antecedents of reminiscence are age, life transitions, attention span, ability to recall, ability to vocalise and stressful situations. Reminiscence can lead to positive mental health, enhanced self esteem and improved communication skills. It also facilitates preparation for death, increases interaction between people, prepares for the future and evaluates a past life. Reminiscence therapy is used extensively in dementia care and evidence shows when used effectively it helps individuals retain a sense of self worth, identity and individuality.

Keywords

analysis concept dementia reminiscence

Introduction and background

An estimated 35.6 million people are living with dementia worldwide (Alzheimer’s Disease International, 2009). The number of people living with dementia is expected to double every 20 years, reaching 81.1 million by 2040 (Ferri et al., 2005). Dementia is ranked as the sixth most common cause of death in high income countries, accounting for 3.4% of the total deaths worldwide in 2004 (World Health Organisation, 2008). Recent Western European studies on the prevalence of dementia indicate there are currently 700,000 people (over 1% of the population) with dementia in the UK and this figure is expected to rise to 940,000 by 2021, a 28% increase (Knapp, Prince, & Albabese, 2007). Similar growths in prevalence rates are indicated for Ireland, from a present figure of 38,000 to over 100,000 by 2036 (O’Shea, 2007). While many people with dementia are cared for at home, it is estimated that 40% require residential care (Egan et al., 2007). The percentage of the older population living in nursing homes and residential care homes in England was 5.5% in 2006, 6.8% in Northern Ireland (based on 2002 figures), 4.6% in Scotland and 5.1% in Wales (Knapp et al., 2007). In Ireland, approximately 4.3% of older people live in public and private residential care facilities (Department of Health and Children, 2005). Knapp et al. (2007) estimated the prevalence of dementia in residential care in the UK to be over 60%. Long-stay care statistics list the percentage of residents with dementia in Ireland varying between 26% and 50%, higher in the eastern part of the country (Department of Health and Children, 2005). Given the increasing prevalence of dementia, increasing attention has been given to psychosocial interventions aimed at improving care for people with dementia.

Reminiscence is a psychosocial intervention commonly used in dementia (Wang, 2007). Reminiscence is the process of recalling personal events or experiences from one’s past that are memorable to the person (Lin, Dai, & Hwang, 2003). While reminiscing is associated with older adults it is an activity well distributed across the adult life span (Cappeliez, Rivard, & Guidon, 2007; Hwang, Lin &, Dai, 2003). Reminiscence and reminiscence therapy are recent phenomena, promoted in practice in the 1980s. Prior to this, reminiscence was likely to be associated with senility (Buhler, 1935 in Bluck and Levine, 1998, p. 185; Coleman, 2005; Kasl-Godley & Gatz, 2000; Lin et al., 2003). The cultural shift in favouring past events has come about due to a rise in gerontological research and theory. Interest in reminiscence has been further stimulated by Erikson’s life span developmental theory where the last psychosocial task of life, being the achievement of ‘integrity’, is described as ‘the acceptance of one’s one and only life cycle as something that has to be and that, by necessity, permitted of no substitutions’ (Erikson, 1963 in Coleman 2005, p. 260).

Despite its popularity with both patients and staff there is little evidence to support its use as an effective healthcare intervention (Bates, Boote, & Beverley, 2004; Boote, Lewin, Beverley, & Bates, 2006; Moos & Bjorn, 2006; Lin et al., 2003; Woods, Spector, Jones, Orrell, & Davies, 2005). In the most recent Cochrane systematic review on reminiscence work in dementia, Woods et al. (2005) argued that there was evidence of an improvement in cognition and mood in people with dementia as well as a decrease in caregiver strain following reminiscence interventions. Nevertheless, they concluded that a number of factors contributed to the difficulty in providing conclusive evidence of its effectiveness including variation in the operational definitions of reminiscence used in the included studies. The implications for future research were that reminiscence needs to be clearly defined for the population it is targeting; the type of reminiscence and its aims also need to be explicitly described and outcome measures should appropriately reflect both.

Aim of the analysis

The concept work was part of a larger cluster randomised trial, titled: The DementiA education programme incorporating REminiscence for Staff (DARES) which sought to evaluate the effectiveness of a structured reminiscence-based education programme for care staff on the quality of life of residents with dementia in long-stay units. The aim of this concept analysis is to define reminiscence, identify its attributes and consequences in order to contribute to understanding and evaluating its use as a psychosocial intervention in dementia care using Rodgers (2000) evolutionary approach to concept analysis.

Concept analysis method

Rodgers’ (2000) evolutionary approach to concept analysis was selected to analyse the concept of reminiscence. This approach was favoured for its ‘evolutionary view’ where the process of concept analysis and development is dynamic. This differs from Walker and Avent’s (1995) method of concept analysis, which, according to Rodgers (1989), presents a static model whereby concepts are unchanging over time. Rodgers’ (2000) evolutionary approach appears ideally suited to analyse the concept of reminiscence due to the fact that reminiscence is a process entered into by individuals across a whole adult life span. Thus what one individual considers the term to mean or the activity to engage in may invariably differ from another individual’s interpretation depending on the age and the circumstances of the reminiscence. Additionally, reminiscence is a broad concept that occurs in a variety of contexts. This paper provides a concept analysis of reminiscence in the context of its therapeutic use for the person with dementia.

Data sources

To examine its use specifically in the health care context, a computerised search using data sources such as CINAHL, MEDLINE, EMBASE and PsychINFO were searched yielding 2988 citations relating to reminiscence. Dates used to refine the literature search were 1990–2010. The search was limited further to full text and scholarly (peer reviewed) journals, and selected to have references available and literature in the English language. The additional keywords of ‘therapy’ and ‘dementia’ were employed with the ‘and’ and ‘or’ Boolean operands, which focused the search, resulting in 108 citations. Additionally an incremental search was conducted where the reference lists of retrieved paper documents from these data sources were examined for additional relevant literature. Articles were selected by two methods: (1) by title search and (2) by reading all abstracts for relevancy to the concept being analysed. Relevant articles were then selected and read in their entirety. Rodgers (2000) contends that 20% of the total retrieved literature search is necessary to facilitate a reliable concept analysis. From the 108 selected papers a sample of 45 were retained for in-depth analysis of the concept of reminiscence, therefore adhering to Rodgers’ guidelines.

Results

Definition, uses of the concept and surrogate terms

Rodgers (2000) contends that evolutionary concept analysis begins with identifying and naming the particular concept of interest and locating surrogate terms and relevant uses of the concept. Reminiscence has no standard definition in health literature; however, it is evident that all definitions offered have similar components and terms. Some definitions of reminiscence are ‘the recalling of personally relevant memories from the past’ (Cappeliez, Guindon, & Robitaille, 2008, p. 266), ‘a selective process in which memories are evoked and reconstructed’ (Cohen & Taylor, 1998, p. 601), ‘the vocal or silent recall of events in a person’s life either alone or with another person or group of people’ (Bohlmeijer, Roemer, Cuijpers, & Smit, 2007, p. 291).

The definition offered by Woods et al. (2005, p. 1) appears quite frequently in the literature on dementia and gives a more detailed account of the various processes involved in a reminiscence activity: ‘reminiscence therapy involves the discussion of past activities, events and experiences with another person or group of people, usually with the aid of prompts such as photographs, household and other familiar items from the past, music and archive sound recordings’. Lin et al. (2003) and Woods et al. (2005) argue that the variation in definitions, types, functions and conceptualisations of reminiscence across studies highlight the challenge in extrapolating and analysing data to support its effectiveness as a psychosocial intervention.

What the literature does suggest is that certain commonalities exit such as reminiscence involves memory and remembering and that these memories or experiences are of earlier events occurring in the individual’s past. What is dissimilar about all definitions is that several authors posit that in order for reminiscence to occur prompts or triggers must be used to evoke a response from an individual (Parker, 2006; Woods et al., 2005; Yamagami, Oosawa, Ito, & Yamaguchi, 2007). Others say that reminiscence may be a silent, solitary experience (Chin, 2007; McKee et al., 2005; Parker, 2006) or it may occur in the presence of others such as in group reminiscence therapy (Parker, 2006; Tadaka & Kanagawa, 2007; Wang, 2007; Zauszniewski et al., 2004). This highlights the issues surrounding the paucity of agreement in the literature on what exactly reminiscence is and how it benefits those with dementia.

Surrogate terms

Although authors have defined or described reminiscence differently, some use surrogate terms when discussing reminiscence, which assists in analysing the concept. Such terms are:

Recall of past events (Butler, 1963; Cappeliez, Rivard, & Guidon, 2007; Dochterman & Bulechek, 2003; Kasl-Godley & Gatz, 2000; McCloskey & Bulechek, 2000; Webster, 1997; Woods et al., 2005);

Thinking and telling (Cappeliez, Lavalle, & Rourke, 2001; Cappeliez, O’Rourke, & Chaudhury, 2005);

Discussion (Woods et al., 2005);

Life review (Arakawa-Davies, 1997; Burnside & Haight, 1992; Davis, 2004; Kasl-Godley & Gatz, 2000; Parker, 2006; Serrano, Latorre, Gatz, & Montanes, 2004; Webster & Cappeliez, 1993).

Some authors are more descriptive than others in defining the content of the recalled past, leading to variations and potential for confusion. Webster (1997) is one of a few who suggests that past memories that are personal to the individual are the content of recall. On the other hand, Butler’s (1963) definition is quite sparse and does not indicate the content of recall at all. The most common surrogate term identified in the literature is life review, which is often used interchangeably with reminiscence.

Determining the defining attributes

Attributes refer to recurrent characteristics of a concept within the literature which help to differentiate the concept from others. From the literature it was seen that three attributes of reminiscence were identified:

Reminiscence is a process of recall which occurs in stages.

Reminiscence is an interaction which involves recalling or telling of early events or a memorable early experience which may occur with or without specific purposes.

Reminiscence is an interaction between the person recalling the memory and one or more individuals.

Reminiscence is a process of recall which occurs in stages

Studies highlight reminiscence as a ‘process’ for recalling the past, indicating that it is structured or organised in approach (Butler, 1963; Cappeliez et al., 2007; Chao, Chen, Liu, & Clark, 2008; Gibson, 2004; Merriman, 1989; Schweitzer & Bruce, 2008). Merriman (1989) discerned four components that constitute the structure and process of reminiscence. The beginning involves the selection of a memory to recall, followed by immersion in that memory and gradual withdrawal from the experience. The process ends with closure, which involves returning to the present. This suggests that recall of the past does not occur in a haphazard way but is a systematic or organised mental process consisting of a beginning, middle and end.

Similarly, Chao et al. (2008) developed an understanding of the process of reminiscence as a therapeutic intervention in nursing home residents with dementia. Four stages in the process of reminiscence were identified which are entrée, immersion, withdrawal and closure. Entrée involves opening the individual’s memories of significant past experiences by stimulating recall of memories using multisensory triggers and themed topics which were relevant to the individual’s background. Immersion involves the individual becoming subsumed in the memory or experience after choosing particular events or experiences during the entrée stage. This can lead to a variety of emotions both positive and negative in nature. In the withdrawal phase, individuals return from their memories to the present. This may be triggered by sadness on recollection of certain memories, fatigue or environmental factors such as noise. Finally, during closure, residents share their reminiscences with the nursing staff and with others. While recall occurred in an organised way, the process of reminiscence was not always planned but often occurred spontaneously during routine nursing activities.

Bohlmeijer et al. (2007) offer a four stage process of reminiscence which includes identity-forming and self continuity, enhancing meaning in life and coherence, preserving a sense of mastery and promotion acceptance and reconciliation. Identity forming is an integral function of reminiscence where the individual has an awareness of how they have changed over time. An individual’s self identity may be enhanced by telling and retelling the story of their lives. Meaning in life is enhanced by reminiscence by focusing on positive past experiences, acquired values, and past and future plans. Having a sense of mastery and control allows the individual to successfully problem solve, overcome traumatic recollections and age healthily. Those with a positive self identity find reconciliation with past experiences, age successfully, accept death and have a greater sense of well-being as a consequence of reminiscence.

Reminiscence is an interaction which involves recalling or telling of early events or a memorable early experience which may occur with or without specific prompts

Burnside and Haight (1992) suggest that an attribute of reminiscence is that the recollection of memories must not be of recent events or experiences. However, there is a deficit of research to support this notion. An attribute which is supported is that reminiscence is an interaction which involves recalling early events or memorable early experiences which may occur with or without specific purposes. Gluck and Bluck (2007) note that people recall a larger number of events from the second and third decades of their life than from other periods and happy or positive events are usually recalled from late adolescent / young adulthood. Accessing some memories will encourage self acceptance while accessing others will actually stimulate self change. Much depends on the aims of the intervention and the techniques used (Coleman, 2005). Engaging in reminiscence of an escapist or obsessive nature often occurs in those suffering from psychological distress. Reminiscing in this manner allows the individual to return to the relative psychological comfort of earlier good days in order to escape from the ‘aversive or boring present and an unappealing future’ (Cappeliez et al., 2007, p. 154).

Gibson (2006) and Schweitzer and Bruce (2008) purport that from an organisational point of view, prompted or structured reminiscence usually involves group sessions. Prompts or triggers are important in the reminiscence process as often people need visual, tactile, auditory experiences to aid recall. Prompts which stimulate a response include photographs, music, old newspapers, knitting patterns, smells, tastes and old objects. Music is particularly significant in evoking memories. Certain triggers may evoke a ‘flash bulb memory’ response and it is vital that nurses are aware of what these triggers may be in order to elicit a response from the individual. Personalising the prompts or triggers to the individual may aid reminiscence. Family involvement plays a role in the process as well as adopting a person centred approach to care. How well the nurse knows the individual will have a lot to do with how effective the reminiscence process will be.

Woods et al. (2005) make reference to the triggers that may be used to stimulate the process of recall, namely objects that are familiar to the individual. Due to the progressive cognitive decline associated with dementia (Kasl-Godley & Gatz, 2000), multisensory triggers, personal to the individual and involving all the five senses are used as catalysts to stimulate the process of reminiscence. Familiar tastes, smells, textures, sounds and visual images can stimulate activities or memories associated with childhood, schooldays, worklife or relationships. Linking the past into the present in this way creates a sense of continuity and restores a sense of personal identity, mastery, self esteem and integrity that may be otherwise lost to the person with dementia (Gibson, 2006; Kitwood, 1997; Schweitzer & Bruce, 2008). However, it is important to note that memory prompts should be appropriate to the age and the culture of the individual.

Spontaneous or unstructured reminiscence usually occurs at the individual level. Authors stress that nurses or carers should be prepared to support reminiscence as an essential intervention whenever or wherever it occurs as such an empathetic process requires training with a special focus on fostering excellent staff communication skills.

Reminiscence is an interaction between the person recalling the memory and one or more other individuals

Past experiences which are recalled are meaningful to the person and the memory may have an emotional aspect. Much of the literature (Baillon et al., 2004; Bates et al., 2004; Brooker & Duce, 2000; Egan et al., 2007; Ferri et al., 2005; Lai, Chi, & Kayser-Jones, 2004; Moos & Bjorn, 2006; Parker, 2006; Politis et al., 2004; Wang, 2007; Woods et al., 2005; Yamagami et al., 2007) focuses on reminiscence therapy on individuals with dementia and conclusions suggest that reminiscence as a therapeutic tool is proven to be beneficial, with individuals with dementia sustaining a higher level of well-being during this activity. Interaction is actively encouraged between staff members and reminiscence group members, ‘making reminiscence an inclusive, stimulating and sociable activity for both participants and staff’ (Brooker & Duce, 2000, p. 357). Reminiscence group therapy provides an opportunity for individuals to recall and review past life events and stimulate a positive self attitude. The personal interaction between the individual and the nurse or caregiver or with the reminiscence group may provide a means of precluding social isolation as well as improving psychological well-being and communication skills of these individuals. Gibson (2004) and Parker (2003) maintain that people with dementia can benefit from reminiscence in grounding their present relationships and maintaining warm, caring relationships which may ward off isolation and withdrawal. The Cochrane review of Woods et al. (2005) assessed the effectiveness of reminiscence therapy for older individuals with dementia; it indicated improvements in cognition, mood, and general behaviour as well as a reduction in caregiver strain.

However, McKee et al. (2005) purport that while much research has been conducted on the benefits of group reminiscence therapy, it is clearly important to recognise and evaluate reminiscence as a simple social or solitary non-verbal engagement with one’s past life which can also bring huge benefits to psychological health. Cohen and Taylor (1998) highlight that the impact of such ‘natural’ reminiscence on the psychological well-being of individuals has rarely been evaluated.

Related concepts

Related concepts are ‘concepts that bear some relationship to the concept of interest but do not seem to share the same set of attributes’ (Rodgers, 2000, p. 92). One concept related to reminiscence is life review.

Life review

The foundation of all reminiscence work is widely attributed to the work of Butler (1963). In his famous paper The life-review: An interpretation of reminiscence in the aged, Butler postulated that reminiscence is observed more frequently in older people. He believed the act of recalling the past or reviewing one’s life is triggered by the realisation of approaching death (Bohlmeijer et al., 2007). In using both ‘life review’ and ‘reminiscence’ in the title of his paper, Butler has caused some ambiguity between the processes of general reminiscence and life review.

Burnside and Haight (1992) purport that life review may have its roots in the church due to the fact that life and conscience examination are scrutinised by the religious. Additionally, Socrates philosophised about life review stating that the unexamined life is not worth living (Hutchins, 1952 in Burnside & Haight, 1992). Life review demands high levels of inner skills (Coleman, 2005) and is therefore not necessarily characteristic of older adults. Coleman (2005) additionally suggests it implies a search for meaning through reflection on one’s life experiences and may lead to transformation goals and changed values.

The terms reminiscence and life review are often used interchangeably in the literature but are quite different in their goals, theory base, approach, content, client role, facilitators’ roles and short term goals. Many authors are in general agreement that the long term goals such as adaptation, improved quality of life, well-being and mood are potentially the same (Gibson, 2006; Lin et al., 2003; Woods et al., 2005). However, researchers stress the importance of being clear in the type and aims of reminiscence being undertaken as this determines the theoretical framework underpinning the process and having a strong theoretical basis for why a treatment approach is chosen is essential for evidence-based practice (Burnside & Haight, 1992; Coleman, 2005; Haight & Burnside, 1993; Kovach, 1991; Woods et al., 2005).

Burnside and Haight provide a conceptual analysis of reminiscence and life review. In their analysis life review is defined as ‘retrospective survey or existence, a critical study of a life, second look at one’s life’ (Burnside & Haight, 1992, p. 856). It has the specific aim of achieving a state of integrity or a sense of wholeness by resolving past conflicts and unfolding the meaning of life before death (Cappeliez, 2002; Lin et al., 2003; Parker, 2006; Torges, Stewart, & Duncan, 2008). Stemming from Erickson’s Human Developmental, it has its roots in psychoanalysis (Kovach, 1991; Parker, 1995). Both recent and remote memories are recalled and are often painful in nature. Molinari (1999) describes life review as a deconstructing of life events into a more positive life narrative. It consists of a one to one, structured evaluation of one’s past covering the whole life span in chronological order. It is lead by trained professionals who engage in the principles of counselling to guide the interactions. A time limited approach is adopted, usually over a time period of four to six weeks, depending on the life reviewer’s needs. Life review can be used right across the life span but it is most commonly used as a therapeutic intervention for older people, cognitively intact or with depressive symptoms (Bohlmeijer et al., 2007). It can be used ‘selectively with people with dementia’ (Gibson, 2006. p. 106).

Lin et al. (2003) suggest that short term outcome measures to evaluate the impact of life review should include integrity, increased well-being and decreased depression. Longer term outcome measures should include adaptation, increased life satisfaction and increased quality of life.

Similarities between reminiscence and life review lie in that they both emanate from Butler’s work in the early 1960s. They are therapeutic interventions mainly implemented with older people and each involves eliciting memories. Common to both approaches is the construction of life stories (Coleman, 1999) and the associated long term outcomes are adaptation, increased life satisfaction and increased quality of life (Burnside & Haight, 1992; Lin et al., 2003; Woods et al., 2005).

Nostalgia

Nostalgia is described as a longing for things, persons or situations that are not present or a longing for a perceived utopian past (Merchant & Ford, 2008). Nostalgia affects the young as well as the old; however, as individuals age, there is a greater tendency to recall bygone days and this often appears to be a longing for not only the past which has been personally experienced but for a past paradise which was never actually experienced.

Literature suggests that nostalgic reverie often revolves around momentous life events and reflects more positive than negative emotions, contains more desirable than undesirable features and leads to more positive than negative mood (Wildschut, Sedikides, Arndt, & Routledge, 2006). Significant life events such as marriages, the birth of a child and graduations when recalled evoke a stronger, more intense memory and recall is better than with less significant life events. Merchant and Ford (2008) describe two types of nostalgia: personal and vicarious. Personal nostalgia is based on an individual’s direct experiences in the search for an idealised past. People engaging in personal nostalgia often remember past events more positively than they actually were and feel a sense of happiness and joy coupled with a bittersweet sense of loss in that the past is not going to return. Personal nostalgia serves as an ‘anchor of continuity and identity’ especially for the elderly when life circumstances are changing. During these changing life circumstances, insecurities and unsureness are experienced and thus individuals revert to memories of the past for comfort and support amidst fears of an uncertain future. Additionally, personal nostalgia aids those who may experience loneliness and recalls the past when family were present and times were happier.

Nostalgia and reminiscence are similar concepts in that both involve remembering past events, both are primarily conducted by the elderly and both activities when effectively carried out produce a positive outcome for the person recalling the past event. However, nostalgia has been distinguished from reminiscence, particularly in the case of vicarious nostalgia, whereby actual life events or situations which did occur to the individual are recalled. Reminiscence recollects actual life events in opposition to nostalgia, which often is a longing for a past that never was. Additionally, literature suggests that an antecedent of reminiscence involves verbalising the recollection to another individual, while nostalgia may be a cognisant, silent, solitary experience.

Antecedents

Antecedents refer to situations, events or phenomena that precede the concept (Dowling, 2003). Certain preceding characteristics or patterns must be observed before reminiscence occurs. The antecedents of reminiscence are age, life transitions, attention span, ability to recall, ability to communicate and certain stressful situations.

As an individual experiences the ageing process certain life events, stressful situations, relocation or the threat of maladjustment may be encountered. With increases in the elderly population, reminiscence has become a popular activity when caring for the elderly and much has been written about the effects of reminiscence therapy and reminiscence groups, conducted particularly in residential or day care settings (Baillon et al., 2004; Bohlmeijer et al., 2007; Brooker & Duce, 2000; Cappeliez et al., 2008; Chin, 2007; Tadaka & Kanagawa, 2007; Wang, 2007; Yamagami et al., 2007; Zauskniewski et al., 2004).

In order for reminiscence to occur and to be successful, recall of the past must occur, therefore a certain amount of memory function, attention span and the ability to vocalise is required. Remote memory, within which the reminiscence process occurs, is usually the last system to deteriorate in the elderly (Lin et al., 2003). This type of memory is where an individual has the ability to recall past events, such as childhood events, but not recent ones. According to Lin et al. (2003) stimulating and increasing the use of this remote memory improves general cognitive function. Woods et al. (2005) contend that autobiographical memory, which is memory of a person’s middle years, and a good level of communication are key to reminiscence and to an individual’s retaining a clear sense of personal identity. However, autobiographical memory is often absent in individuals with dementia, which ultimately disconnects the person’s past from the present. Nurses and caregivers play an important role in the practice of reminiscence and therefore need evidence based knowledge about reminiscence and its relation to health promotion for the elderly.

Individuals engaging in reminiscence tend to recall past events that are positive and memorable to the person, especially events which have occurred between the ages of 15 and 30 years (Gluck & Bluck, 2007). In contrast it may be adaptive to selectively forget negative past events (Wilson & Ross, 2003). Often, naturally occurring reminiscences happen as a result of negative emotions. Stressful situations may occur when prompts or triggers are used to elicit reminiscence in individuals with dementia which may evoke unhappy memories. Older people may have encountered pain or loss in their past and recalling certain past events may cause distress to them (Cappeliez et al., 2005).

Consequences

Consequences are events that occur as a result of the concept. There are many documented consequences of reminiscence, some of which are that it aids positive mental health, aids successful adaptation to old age, reaffirms a sense of identity, maintains self esteem, improves communication skills, increases interaction between individuals, facilitates preparation for death, helps to master personal losses experienced in later life, facilitates important decision making, allows for examination of one’s conscience, prepares for the future, and evaluates a past life (Bohlmeijer et al., 2007; Cappeliez et al., 2001, 2005, 2008; Egan et al., 2007; Lai et al., 2004; Schweitzer & Bruce, 2008; Serrano et al., 2004; Swee Hong & Heathcote, 2005; Tadaka & Kanagawa, 2007; Thorgrimsen, Schweitzer, & Orrell, 2002; Woods et al., 2005; Yamagami et al., 2007; Zauszniewski et al., 2004).

Clinical trials evaluating the impact of reminiscence work in dementia care indicate it is associated with an improvement in cognition (Lai et al., 2004; Thorgrimsen et al., 2002; Tadaka & Kanagawa, 2007; Wang, 2007) and in depressive symptoms (Chiang et al., 2010; Hsieh & Wang, 2003) consistent with Bohlmeijer’s (2007) findings on the use of reminiscence with older people without dementia. Positive effects have also been demonstrated on behavioural functioning (Baillon et al., 2004; Politis et al., 2004; Thorgrimsen et al., 2002) as well as caregiver strain and staffs’ knowledge of residents’ backgrounds (Thorgrimsen et al., 2002). There is also evidence that reminiscence interventions lead to enhanced well-being for participants with dementia (Brooker & Duce, 2000; Cook, 1998; Haslam et al., 2010; Rattenbury & Stone, 1989).

Respecting what individuals say through reminiscence has the potential to raise self esteem, especially for those with dementia, where loss of cognitive function can affect their sense of identity (Heathcote, 2007). Bohlmeijer et al. (2007) purport that many older individuals suffer from reduced psychological well-being and reminiscence has potentially a lot to offer them.

Often researchers relate their views of reminiscence to ‘disengagement theory’ (Cumming & Henry, 1961 in Lin et al., 2003), which highlights successful ageing as involving a process of withdrawal from social life in preparation for death (Lin et al., 2003). Parker (2006) contends that other studies focus on what Erikson termed ‘ego-integrity’ whereby when ego-integrity in old age is achieved the person believes his or her life has significance and meaning and fulfilment is achieved, thus they are not fearing death. However, it must be noted that not all the elderly experience the same life events, situations or have similar needs. According to Coleman (2005) reminiscence for death preparation predicts life satisfaction, supporting Erikson’s insight into the dynamics of integrity in the final stages of life.

Life transitions and events cause individuals to interpret and make sense of changes and often recall the past. Doing so provides a sense of continuity and facilitated adaptation. Reminiscence can facilitate this by providing a mechanism by which people adapt to life changes (Lin et al., 2003). Occasionally older adults use reminiscence as a means of interacting with others, maintaining social involvement to foster well-being.

Randall and Kenyon (2001) contend that ‘restorying’ an individual’s life is possible so that negative experiences become opportunities for development and acquisition of wisdom. When conducted effectively and in the correct situation, reminiscence has the potential to contribute to psychological adaptation by providing a sense of self fulfilment and self achievement. Additionally it promotes the discovery of the meaning of life, reduces the incidence of depression and overcomes feelings of guilt and conflict related to one’s past.

Discussion

Given the seriousness of the impact of dementia on all associated with the illness, the ageing population and the increasing prevalence with age, healthcare policy is focused on improving and maintaining quality of life in dementia from diagnosis to the end of life. The provision of effective, evidence-based care pathways at all stages of the illness, especially within long-stay facilities, is important (O’Shea, 2007). Conversely researchers suggest that residential care staff often lack the skills and knowledge required to care for residents with dementia thus impacting negatively on the quality of life of patients (Murphy, O’Shea, & Cooney, 2007).

Initiatives such as the National Dementia Strategy (Department of Health, 2009) in the UK and the Action Plan for Dementia (APD) in Ireland advocate a person-centred approach to care which will provide for the individual needs of the person with dementia. Such an approach seeks to focus on what people are still able to do, maintaining the individuality of the person with dementia (Kitwood, 1997), and in addition, promoting a sense of well-being by creating a supportive social environment, enabling people to continue to communicate, maintain relationships and be socially included despite their dementia (Kitwood, 1997; Schweitzer & Bruce, 2008). Integrating evidence-based psychosocial approaches to complement medical and neurological models of service delivery is key to the person-centred approach. However, if healthcare professionals are to develop the skills necessary for such an empathic delivery of care, staff training is essential (O’Shea, 2007).

Psychosocial interventions have the potential to improve the quality of life of people with dementia and those who care for them (Brooker, 2007). They also have the potential to support a person-centred approach to dementia care (Keady, Woods, Hahn, & Hill, 2004). Reminiscence therapy (RT) is a psychosocial intervention commonly used in dementia (Wang, 2007). Reminiscence in dementia is an important concept to define as research indicates that reminiscence could improve outcomes for people with dementia and their caregivers (Woods et al., 2005). Part of the appeal of reminiscence in dementia care is that it improves the quality of life of people with dementia, improves mood and well-being and reduces behavioural problems (Moos & Bjorn, 2006; Woods et al., 2005). One factor of its popularity is that it works with early memories, which remain relatively intact for people with dementia (Basso, Bruce, & de Hamsher, 2003), thus drawing on the person’s preserved abilities rather than focusing on their levels of impairment (Gibson, 2006; Schweitzer & Bruce, 2008).

Although RT is used extensively in dementia care, little is known about its effectiveness as a care intervention (Moos & Bjorn, 2006). Most studies have employed qualitative, descriptive or observational methods with few robust experimental trials (Finnema, Droes, Ribbe, & Tilburg, 2000; Lin et al., 2003; McKeown, Clarke, & Repper, 2006; Woods et al., 2005). In the most recent Cochrane systematic review on reminiscence therapy in dementia, Woods et al. (2005) argued that there was evidence of an improvement in cognition and in general behaviour in people with dementia as well as a decrease in caregiver strain following reminiscence therapy.

When used appropriately, reminiscence has the ability to help individuals retain a sense of self worth, identity and individuality. Older adults who engage in reminiscence were found to have enhanced psychological morbidity and display greater positive emotion (Swee Hong & Heathcote, 2005). Reminiscence facilitates individuals to problem solve in the present by identifying past strengths and methods of coping with difficult life events, reinforcing a sense of continuity, finding meaning in one’s life.

The term life review is used synonymously when discussing reminiscence and while both concepts encapsulate a similar component of recalling the past, they both have distinct theoretical differences. Reminiscence is associated with therapy and change while life review involves the evaluation and re-synthesis of past experiences, usually precipitated by the need to resolve issues, achieving a sense of meaning to one’s life prior to death. Lashley (1993) highlights the differences further between the two concepts noting that reminiscence is considered to be a psychosocial intervention focusing on positive memories whereas life review allows the individual to reflect on their life with the purpose of coming to terms with past guilt and unresolved conflicts, to reconcile relationships, ultimately finding meaning in past experiences.

A frequent concern when using reminiscence is the prompting of unhappy memories. Older people may have encountered loss or pain in their past and recalling certain past events may cause distress to them. A study of naturally occurring reminiscences indicated that 67% of these reminiscences occurred as a result of negative emotions, primarily sadness or nostalgia (Cappeliez et al., 2005). Without appropriate support, an individual may be left with overwhelming feelings evoked by painful remembrances. It has been suggested by Swee Hong and Heathcote (2005) that by adopting a person-centred approach to patient care and having knowledge of the individual, potential problems should be avoided. Likewise stimulating reminiscence can too easily be seen as an easy option to engage the elderly and distracting them from present day concerns – ‘it’s character escapist rather than constructive’ (Coleman, 2005, p. 291).

Nevertheless, variations in outcomes and the diverse forms of RT used in studies made it difficult to provide conclusive evidence of its effectiveness. The implications for future research were clearly indicated. More robust randomised controlled trials with clear treatment protocols are warranted. In addition, reminiscence for the population it is targeting needs to be clearly defined, the type of reminiscence and its aims also need to be explicitly outlined and outcome measures should appropriately reflect both.

Woods and colleagues’ (Woods et al., 2005) definition is applicable to individuals with dementia but would benefit from indicating the purpose of undertaking reminiscence and possible outcomes predicted in this population. Taking into consideration the recommendations and key findings in dementia research, we propose that reminiscence in individuals with dementia be defined as:

‘Reminiscence is the deliberate use of prompts, for example photographs, smells, music and questioning, to promote the recall of pleasant memories. The focus of reminiscence work is to stimulate the person, provide enjoyment and foster a sense of achievement and self-worth. The anticipated outcomes of reminiscence work are enhancement of the person's quality of life, behaviour and mood.’

Conclusion

Successful ageing has been long associated with a process known as reminiscence. Research suggests that reminiscence, especially when conducted by the elderly, is a normal and universal adaptation response to ageing which stimulates personal growth. Reminiscence is a common, effective and purposeful psychosocial intervention used with individuals with dementia which permits intrapersonal self evaluation and fosters interpersonal relationships and self esteem, while additionally reinforcing one’s own sense of competence and well-being. While no one definition exists of what reminiscence is, an operational definition is proposed in response to analysing the concept of reminiscence with the purpose of developing the concept of reminiscence in dementia care.

Footnotes

Funding

This research received no specific grant from any funding agency in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors.

Conflict of interest statement

No conflict of interest has been declared by the authors.

Laura Dempsey is a registered general nurse and has been lecturing at the School of Nursing & Midwifery at the National University of Ireland, Galway since 2003 where she teaches on a variety of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. Her main responsibility within the School of Nursing & Midwifery is programme director for the postgraduate diploma in nursing (palliative care) programme. Her research interests are in end of life care and older people. Her PhD examines the experiences of family carers who provide end of life care for those dying with dementia.

Kathy Murphy has a clinical background in gerontology and ED and held posts at clinical nurse manager level in both. She has worked in nursing education for 25 years. Current research studies include an RCT examining the impact of structured education programmes for people with COPD and another on the quality of life of older people with dementia.

Adeline Cooney is a senior lecturer at the School of Nursing and Midwifery, National University of Ireland, Galway. Her research interests focus on older people's quality of life, the meaning of “home” for older people in long-stay care settings, dementia care and the use of reminiscence with people with dementia.

Dympna Casey is a registered general nurse with nursing experience in palliative care and care of older people. She is a lecturer at the school of nursing & midwifery at the National University of Ireland, Galway where she teaches across a range of programmes from undergraduate to master's level and supervises students undertaking research dissertations at postgraduate and PhD level. Her research interests include issues relating to health promotion, care of older people, self management of chronic diseases in particular diabetes, COPD and dementia care. She has a keen interest in promoting healthier lifestyles for older people and in examining ways of supporting and maintaining the health and functional capacity of older people. She has specific expertise in qualitative research methods and in the development and implementation of structured education and lifestyle intervention programmes for chronic health conditions.

Eamon O’Shea is a Personal Professor in economics at NUI Galway. He has published over 70 papers in peer-reviewed journals, as well as a number of books and reports, mainly in the area of ageing and social policy. His work has been influential in setting the agenda for the ongoing reform of the long-stay sector in Ireland, particularly in relation to funding, priority-setting and dementia. He recently co-authored the influential report Creating Excellence in Dementia Care: A Research Review for Ireland's National Dementia Strategy. His current research interests are in health economics, ageing and dementia.

Declan Devane is Professor and Chair of Midwifery at the School of Nursing and Midwifery, National University of Ireland, Galway. He is an Associate Editor with the Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group, a member of the International Confederation of Midwives (ICM) Expert Network of Research Advisors, a member of the Midwifery Committee of An Bord Altranais (National Nursing and Midwifery regulatory board for Ireland), a Visiting Fellow of the UK Cochrane Centre, a member of the UK Cochrane Centre Systematic Review training team and a member of the Editorial Board or Advisory Panel of a number of international peer review journals in the area of maternity care and women's health.

Fionnuala Jordan is a mental health nurse and a PhD student at the School of Nursing and Midwifery at the National University of Ireland, Galway. Fionnuala's PhD study examines ‘The effectiveness of a structured educational reminiscence based programme for staff in long-stay units on the quality of life of residents with dementia’. Her involvement in the DARES study includes membership of the core research team and DARES steering group, participating in the development of the DARES structured education programme and trial protocol. Her main area of responsibility in the DARES Study is to oversee all aspects of the trial methodology.

Andrew Hunter is a qualified mental health nurse and trained cognitive behavioural therapist. He has undertaken research and lectured in Mental Health Nursing at Edinburgh University and The University of Manchester. Since 2008 Andrew has been lecturing and researching at The National University of Ireland, Galway. He specialises in teaching communication and psychosocial interventions to nursing students and has developed experience in grounded theory and RCT methodologies. He has expertise in CAMHS, educational and dementia care research.

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