A randomized controlled trial of a specific reminiscence approach to promote the well-being of nursing home residents with dementia

Abstract

Background: To date, no firm conclusions can be reached regarding the effectiveness of reminiscence for dementia. Researchers have emphasized that there is an urgent need for more systematic research in the area. Objective and Method: A single-blinded, parallel-groups (one intervention, one comparison, and one no-intervention group) randomized controlled trial (RCT) was adopted to investigate whether a specific reminiscence program leads to higher levels of psychosocial well-being in nursing home residents with dementia. The intervention adopted a life-story approach, while the comparison group provided friendly discussions to control for any changes in outcome as a result of social contacts and attention. The Social Engagement Scale (SES) and Well-being/Ill-being Scale (WIB) were the outcome measures used. The outcomes of the groups were examined with reference to the baseline (T₀), immediately (T₁), and six weeks (T₂) after intervention. The final sample had 101 subjects (control group: n = 30; comparison group: n = 35; intervention group: n = 36). Using multivariate analysis with repeated measures, no significant differences in outcome were found between groups at either T₁ or T₂. Wilcoxon signed rank tests were performed for each group comparing outcomes between T₁ and T₀, T₂ and T₁, and T₂ and T₀. Significant differences were observed in the intervention group when comparing T₁ and T₀ WIB (p = .014), but not for the other groups. Conclusion: Although the intervention did not lead to significant differences between the three groups over time, there was a significant improvement in psychosocial well-being for the intervention group.