Reminiscence Group Therapy: A Case Study

As a theoretical framework, reminiscence group therapy is used in designing the counselling programme for the elderly who were loneliness and social isolation. Reminiscence therapy is derived from Erikson’s theory of ego development. Erikson’s work has been developed and proposed by Butler and Birren, which ego integrity could be achieved in an analytical and evaluative way to recall one’s past, and researchers had developed the continuity theory and contributed other insights in understanding the important of reminiscence in recent years. According to Wang (2007), reminiscence group therapy defined as discussion using vocal or silent recall of past events, activities and experiences among a group of people. It involves the recollection, review, …show more content…
Study has shown that reminiscence group therapy is helpful in improving the elderly participant’s feelings of loneliness and social isolation (Chiang et al., 2010). Many studies have highlight the effectiveness of reminiscence group therapy toward loneliness and social isolation elderly and point out that there is a positive effect of this therapy (Chiang et al., 2010). Pittiglio (2000) stated that when interacting with other individuals in a group, the act of reminiscing can comfort the group members through a sense of conveyance of presence. Reminiscence group therapy provides opportunities to elderly for social interaction and enjoyment. Loneliness and social isolation elderly has less social interaction, feeling lonelier and more depressed. This may impact their level of life satisfaction and well-being. Hence, it is believed that social interaction and enjoyment may alleviate loneliness and social isolation, which will also increase the level of life satisfaction and …show more content…
Groupwork can help to alleviate isolation and loneliness among elderly (Heathcote & Chia, 2009). Loneliness defined as an expression of a person’s sense of aloneness (Cattan et al., 2005). Social isolation was the lack of involvement in social contact. Group activities can improve both conditions. Walsh (1993) stated that togetherness and a sense of belonging have been fosters when a person participating in regular group activity. As elderly people contributed in some way to the development and planning of the group activities, they tend to be less loneliness and social isolation. The group activities included going on outings, playing cards or bingo, and making crafts, befriending, having a meal, exercise and physical activity and reminiscence. These group activities able to make communication and interaction among the