Positive Reminiscence Intervention/Therapy

Butler (1963) emphasized that reminiscence is a naturally occurring universal and spontaneous mental process in which past experiences are progressively returned to consciousness. Correspondingly, other researchers have posited that reminiscence is “a structured process of systematically reflecting on one's life” (Brady, 1999, p.179). Thus, reminiscence has personal significance that it draws upon the experience of time; one may recall smells, tastes, sights and sounds, physical sensations and emotions, which may paint memories to reappraise purpose in life. Thus, making it is a natural phenomenon in which one can introspectively define or redefine oneself (Havighurst & Glasser 1972). Moreover, reminiscing can be used in a social context in which one can reach back to reevaluate personal connection and relationship with others. For instance, …show more content…
One way an elderly adult may enhance their own well-being is using Positive Reminiscence Intervention/Therapy (Bryant et al., 2005; Butler, 1963; Cook, 1998; Davis, 2004) Rather than ameliorate pathology or deficiency, positive reminiscence benefit well-being through the development of positive (i.e. adaptive) traits and behaviors in individuals (Seligman, Rashid, & Parks, 2006). For instance, Cook (1998) prescribed positive reminiscence to elderly women in nursing homes for 1 hour a week for 16 weeks. The results after the 16-week period significantly enhanced the happiness and life satisfaction of the elderly who participated. Positive emotional states deserve the focus, because positive states are an essential aspect of a fulfilled life and have been shown to promote adaptive behavior (Fredrickson, 2001). Further, positive reminiscence therapy or intervention usually come at a very small cost to the user; this can be as simple as writing past pleasant experiences through a personal journal (cognitive), talking with others about their cherished