Effects of Group Reminiscence Therapy on Agitated Behavior and Quality of Life in Taiwanese Older Adults With Dementia

J Psychosoc Nurs Ment Health Serv. 2019 Aug 1;57(8):30-36. doi: 10.3928/02793695-20190315-01. Epub 2019 Apr 11.

Abstract

The purpose of the current study was to evaluate short- and long-term effects of group reminiscence on agitated symptoms and quality of life (QOL) for individuals with dementia. A quasi-experimental study using a repeated-measures design was conducted in 43 residents with dementia. Participants received a 50-minute group reminiscence therapy session once per week for 10 weeks. Outcomes were measured 1 week before, 1 week after, and at 3 months postintervention. Results showed no significant difference on the overall agitated behavior of participants. However, verbally aggressive behavior decreased significantly (p = 0.025), whereas intentional falling (p = 0.025), hoarding (p = 0.021), and akathisia (p = 0.027) significantly decreased in the short term. Participation in group reminiscence therapy significantly improved QOL (p < 0.001) across time periods for individuals with dementia. The findings provide information for professional and nonprofessional caregivers of individuals with specific agitated behaviors to improve their QOL. [Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 57(8), 30-36.].

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Dementia / psychology
  • Dementia / therapy*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mental Recall*
  • Psychomotor Agitation / psychology*
  • Psychotherapy, Group*
  • Quality of Life / psychology*