Date of Completion

Spring 5-2-2024

Thesis Advisor(s)

Juliette Shellman

Honors Major

Nursing

Disciplines

Geriatric Nursing | Nursing

Abstract

Life satisfaction, loneliness, and mental health & well-being are important factors to consider when working with the older adult population. This population is predisposed to many risk factors for mental health problems such as coping with a serious illness, losing a loved one, living alone, cognitive deficits, and more. Reminiscence is one simple, flexible, and cost-effective intervention that can be utilized to promote the mental health and well-being of older adults. Reminiscence is defined as the cognitive process of recalling the past. Numerous studies have shown beneficial effects of reminiscence in older adults: increased self-esteem, enhanced quality of life, increased life satisfaction, decreased loneliness, improved cognitive functioning, and overall promotion of mental health outcomes. The purpose of this study is to qualitatively analyze participant responses in a telephone-based reminiscence program and draw common themes. This study utilizes data from a larger study conducted by the STARR group at the University of Connecticut. STORII, an automated telephone-based reminiscence program, was used to record participants' life stories by asking questions that were thought-provoking. Through the contextual analysis of 24 participant profiles and their answered questions, seven qualitative themes emerged from the data. The themes were reflective of positive reminiscence, as evidenced by the participants recall of positive memories from their past life. When participants recalled positive memories, they were able to reconnect with the past and find meaning from it. The telephone format of reminiscence was useful to this population because of its ease of use and simplicity. The use of reminiscence has many beneficial impacts on older adults and it should be a normalized intervention when working with this vulnerable population.

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