The effects of creative reminiscing on individuals with dementia and their caregivers: A pilot study

Date

2014-02-25

Authors

Fletcher, Tina
Eckberg, Jonathan

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

Taylor & Francis

Abstract

Reminiscing is known to enhance well-being, increase social participation and provide opportunities for self-expression. However, while reminiscing activities have become standard in many memory care facilities, their outcomes have not been systematically evaluated. Aims: This research explored the effects of creative reminiscence activities on the quality of life of clients with memory loss and on caregivers' self-perceived burdens associated with caring for an individual with memory loss. Methods: Using time and attention control activities and creative reminiscing activities, the observed, self-reported, and caregivers' opinions of the quality of life of clients with moderate Alzheimer's disease was documented over the course of this study. Caregivers' perceptions of the burdens associated with caring for loved ones were also assessed. Result: Results of this pilot study showed significant increases in caregivers' perceptions of their loved ones' quality of life and decreases in the burdens they experienced during the intervention phase. No significant changes occurred in clients' self-reported or observed well-being during the study. Conclusions: While using a carefully considered creative reminiscence activity intervention for clients with dementia can cause a decrease in caregivers' perception of their own burden and an increase in their perceptions of the loved ones' quality of life, future research is needed to determine the subtle nuances in well-being of individuals with memory loss and their caregivers.

Description

Article originally published in Physical & Occupational Therapy In Geriatrics, 32(1), 68–84. English. Published Online 2014. https://doi.org/10.3109/02703181.2014.880863

Keywords

Reminiscing, Dementia, Burden, Mementos, Caregivers, Quality of life

Citation

This is the abstract for an article that is available at https://doi.org/10.3109/02703181.2014.880863. Recommended citation: Fletcher, T. S., & Eckberg, J. D. (2014). The effects of creative reminiscing on individuals with dementia and their caregivers: A pilot study. Physical & Occupational Therapy In Geriatrics, 32(1), 68–84. This item has been deposited in accordance with publisher copyright and licensing terms and with the author’s permission.