A Systematic Review of the Reminiscence Functions Scale and Implications for Use with Older Adults

ABSTRACT

Objectives: The Reminiscence Functions Scale (RFS) is a widely used robust instrument. While reminiscence-based intervention is one of the most effective nonpharmacological interventions for older adults. This systematic review provides a comprehensive synthesis of the literature that used RFS with older adults, summarizes the main outcomes, and highlights implications for practice. Methods: This systematic review followed Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Studies were eligible if they used RFS and included older adults. Studies were searched from 1993, the year RFS was first published. Electronic databases were searched (Scopus, PsycNET, and Web of Science), from which 44 eligible studies were identified. Results: Four themes were identified: i) predictive value of reminiscence functions regarding well-being, ii) increased frequency of teach/inform and death preparation functions in older adults, iii) key roles of reminiscence functions in coping with critical life events, iv) reminiscence-based interventions should promote positive memories. Conclusions: The RFS outcomes may improve reminiscence-based interventions, since the functions of reminiscence are key players in older adults daily life. Clinical Implications: Reminiscence-based interventions should promote positive memories, which are associated with improved well-being. Particularly, it seems a good practice when supporting older adults regarding critical and traumatic events.

KEYWORDS:

• Aging
• older adults
• reminiscence functions scale
• reminiscence practice
• systematic review

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Clinical implications

• RFS seems a valid, robust instrument for evaluating reminiscence functions in older adults.

• Reminiscence-based interventions should promote positive memories, which are associated with improved well-being.

• Reminiscence-based interventions with older adults need to consider death preparation and teach/inform reminiscence functions, since older adults reminisce more than their younger counterparts in relation to these functions.

• Older adults in residential care tend to prefer to reminisce alone, aiming to maintain feelings of connectedness with loved ones.

• Reminiscence-based intervention seems a good practice to be used when supporting older adults who are facing or faced critical and traumatic events.

Additional information

Funding

This article was supported by National Funds through FCT—Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia within CINTESIS, R&D Unit [reference Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia (FCT) UIDB/4255/2020].