EBP Compendium: Summary of Systematic Review
The Cochrane Collaboration; North Thames NHS Executive UK; Medical Research Council UK; University College London UK; University of Wales Bangor UK
Reminiscence Therapy for Dementia
Woods, B., Spector, A., et al.
(2005).
Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews(2).
Indicators of Review Quality:
|
The review addresses a clearly focused question
| No |
|
Criteria for inclusion of studies are provided
| Yes |
|
Search strategy is described in sufficient detail for replication
| Yes |
|
Included studies are assessed for study quality
| Yes |
|
Quality assessments are reproducible
| Yes |
Description: This is a review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials for the use of reminiscence therapy for individuals with dementia.
Question(s) Addressed:
Question not specifically stated.
Population: Older adults diagnosed with dementia, cognitive impairment, Alzheimer's disease, or organic brain syndrome.
Intervention/Assessment: Regular individual sessions or meetings of small groups, which involve the process of reminiscing, possibly aided by means such as photographs, music and videos of the past.
Number of Studies Included: 5
Years Included: Through 2004
Findings:
Conclusions:
- Treatment
- Cognition
- Restorative Treatments
- Reminiscence Therapy - There was inconclusive evidence surrounding the efficacy of reminiscence therapy for dementia due to small number and low quality of studies found. However, the authors reported that some cognitive improvements were significant 4-6 weeks after the end of intervention. Further research is warranted.
Keywords: Dementia, Cognitive Stimulation, Cognition
Access the Review
Added to Compendium: March 2012