Background: To date, no firm conclusions could be reached regarding the effectiveness of reminiscence for dementia. Researchers emphasize an urgent need for more systematic research in the area. Method: A single-blinded, parallel groups (one intervention, one comparison, and one no-intervention group) randomized controlled trial investigating 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 outcomes as a result of social contacts and attention. The Social Engagement Scale (SES) and Wellbeing-Illbeing Scale (WIB) were the outcome measures used. Outcome between the groups were compared at baseline (T0), immediately post-intervention (T1), and 6 weeks after completion of the intervention (T2). Results: 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 T2 SES and T0 SES (p=.032), and T1 and T0 WIB (p=.014). Conclusion: Although the intervention did not effect significant differences between the three groups over time, there were significant improvements in psychosocial well-being for the intervention group.
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