The Effectiveness of Reminiscence Interventions on Depression and Depressive Symptoms in Community-dwelling Older Adults without Significant Cognitive Impairment: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Background:

Along with the global rise in the population of older adults, addressing depression among this population has become a critical public health concern. Reminiscence therapy is one of the interventions shown to be effective in reducing depression and depressive symptoms.

Objectives:

To systematically summarize the effectiveness of reminiscence interventions in reducing depression and depressive symptoms in community-dwelling older adults without significant cognitive impairment.

Methods:

The literature search was conducted through four electronic databases: PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Scopus for studies published in English. Risks of bias were evaluated using the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2 tool and the Joanna Briggs Institute Quality Appraisal Instrument.

Results:

The systematic review included 11 studies involving 650 community-dwelling older adults, with mean ages ranging from 65.3 to 78.7. Nine articles found reminiscence therapy effective in alleviating depression and depressive symptoms in community-dwelling older adults without significant cognitive impairment. Structured reminiscence interventions were effective in reducing depression and depressive symptoms in six out of seven studies. Group reminiscence interventions demonstrated significant improvements in depression in 87.5% of studies. Memories triggers, suggested by four included studies, were practical tools to help initiate reminiscence sessions. All included studies were rated as having a low risk of bias.

Conclusion:

Reminiscence has the potential as a valuable and effective treatment for depression and depressive symptoms in community-dwelling older adults without significant cognitive impairment. Future research should focus on exploring diverse modalities, incorporating active control groups, and having longer follow-up periods to assess sustained benefits.