It makes you keep trying: Life review writing for older adults

ABSTRACT

Life review writing produces numerous psychosocial benefits for older adults, who are at risk for isolation and depression. This article shares findings from a study that examined the experiences of older adults participating in a life review writing group. The impact of gender composition on the group dynamic was also explored. Using interpretative phenomenological analysis, this study explored the experiences of six women and one man who participated in a life review writing group. Six unifying themes emerged from the research findings: (1) legacy, (2) connecting with others, (3) reflection, (4) vitality, (5) structure of the group, and (6) gender dynamics. Implications for theory, practice, and research are discussed.

KEYWORDS:

• Life review writing
• older adults
• psychosocial benefits
• interpretative phenomenological analysis

Acknowledgment

The authors express gratitude to the research participants for sharing their experiences of their life review writing group.