The effects of integrative reminiscence on depressive symptoms in older African Americans

West J Nurs Res. 2009 Oct;31(6):772-86. doi: 10.1177/0193945909335863. Epub 2009 May 15.

Abstract

The purpose of this pilot study was to evaluate the effect of integrative reminiscence on depressive symptoms in older African Americans. Fifty-six community-dwelling participants from a northeast urban setting were randomized into a reminiscence intervention group (n = 19), attention control group (health education; n = 19), or true control group (n = 18). Data were collected pre- and posttest using the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale. Significant differences were found between groups, F(2, 52) = 8.6, p = .001, eta(2) = .10. Using Holm's method of post hoc analysis, the mean score for the reminiscence group was 6.8 (SD = 4.7), significantly different from the control group 14.6 (SD = 10.1) and the health education group 11.7 (SD = 7.1). Findings demonstrate that integrative reminiscence has a positive effect on decreasing depressive symptoms in older African Americans.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Black or African American
  • Depression / physiopathology*
  • Depression / therapy*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mental Recall*
  • Models, Theoretical
  • Personal Satisfaction
  • Pilot Projects
  • Residential Facilities