Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
Turk Geriatri Dergisi, cilt.10, sa.3, ss.131-137, 2007 (SCI-Expanded)
Introduction: Integrative elder care services require parity between mental and medical health needs of elders. Therefore, up-to-date mental health interventions geared towards elderly need to be adopted in Turkey. This preliminary study investigated the efficacy of reminiscence therapy on life satisfaction of Turkish older adults. Materials and Method: Participants (N = 70) were administered the Turkish version of Life Satisfaction Index A (LSIA). Using an experimental matched-pairs design, volunteering participants were screened for a reminiscence therapy group program. Pretest and posttest LSIA scores for the treatment and non-treatment control group were evaluated for significant differences. A focus group interview was also conducted to evaluate participants' group experience. Results: Data from non-parametric tests revealed non-significant increases in the life satisfaction scores of treatment group participants. Participants reported positive feedback regarding the group experience, e.g. group's role in facilitating interaction and friendship among participants, enhancing a more positive self-image and leading to enjoyment and pleasant feelings. Conclusion: No significant effect of reminiscence therapy on fife satisfaction was found in this study which was carried out with a limited number of participants. However, it appears reminiscence therapy has potential benefits for elders in empowering them emotiorolly and helping them socialize.