Effectiveness of Reminiscence Therapy on Self Esteem Life Satisfaction and Socialization among Elderly Residing In Old Age Home A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

The current era is facing a growing elderly population in both developed and developing countries. This is accompanied by an increased risk of physical and psychological disorders. Reminiscence therapy (RT) is a cost-effective, non-pharmacological intervention that addresses these challenges. It allows the elderly to share personal life stories, improving self-esteem, socialization and overall life satisfaction. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of reminiscence therapy on level Life satisfaction, Self-esteem and socialization among elderly residing in old age homes in Rajasthan. The study used a randomized controlled trial design with 112 samples in the southern region of Rajasthan, India. One district, Udaipur was randomly selected and four registered old age homes were chosen as clusters. These clusters were divided into two experimental and two control groups. The intervention consisted of 12 reminiscence sessions over 6 weeks. Data was collected using the modified Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, modified Life Satisfaction Scale and Self-Structured Socialization Scale. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. newline newlineThis study showed a statistically significant improvement in self-esteem levels among elderly participants in the experimental group following reminiscence therapy (mean difference = 15.54, p lt 0.001), while the control group demonstrated only minimal changes in life satisfaction in the experimental group post-intervention (mean difference = 42.1, p lt 0.001). Before therapy, majority were categorized as unsatisfied or extremely unsatisfied. Post-therapy, 83.9% expressed satisfaction, highlighting the effectiveness of reminiscence therapy in enhancing contentment and purpose among the elderly. Socialization scores significantly increased in the experimental group post-intervention (mean difference = 21.7, p lt 0.001), whereas the control group showed smaller improvements. After the therapy, 91.1% of the experimental group reported abundant and highly satisfying social relat