Reminiscence therapy in geriatric mental health care: A clinical review

Abstract

Reminiscence therapy (RT) has been used over the past two decades extensively in the management of patients with dementia and geriatric depression. The following review study looks at the current role of RT in geriatric patients from a clinical perspective. The review elucidates the concept of reminiscence and looks at the historical aspects of RT. It also looks at the taxonomy and classification of the various types of reminiscences and RT techniques. The difference between reminiscence and life review is discussed. There are sections that look at the clinical role of RT in the management of patients with dementia and geriatric depression. The role of art therapy as a form of RT is discussed and elaborated. The existing literature on RT is reviewed, and certain recommendations for RT are made. There is also a slight deliberation on the need for RT in Indian settings. The role of RT as positive geriatric mental health intervention is also discussed.