THE EFFECT OF REMINISCENCE GROUP THERAPY ON THE DEPRESSION OF THE ELDERLIES IN NURSING HOMES OF URMIA

Today, with medical advances and higher levels of health, number of elderly
people has increased. Mental disorder by serious depression, anxiety and social isolation is prevalent in
the elderly. The aim of this study was to evaluate of reminiscence group therapy effect on the depression
of elderlies in 4 different nursing homes of Urmia.
Materials & Methods: This study was an experimental study in which elderly people in nursing homes of
Ferdous, Azahra, Ara and khane sabz after having the conditions to be included in the study were
enrolled. After balancing the two groups, they were randomly assigned into intervention and control
groups. Reminiscence group therapy sessions in the intervention group at each center consisted of 8
sessions, held twice a week. Geriatric Depression Scale questionnaire were completed by seniors both
before and after the intervention. The data Analyzed by using SPSS software.
Results: Results showed that the mean of depression decreased in the intervention group after group
reminiscence therapy. The difference between mean numbers of the intervention and control groups was
statistically significant (P<0/001) comparing before to after intervention.
Conclusion: Implementing of reminiscence group therapy had a positive influence on the depression of
elderlies. This technique can be used in a simple, inexpensive and applicable way in all nursing homes.