IN SEARCH OF MEANING: A REMINISCENCE PROGRAM FOR OLDER PERSONS |
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Authors: | Gerben J. Westerhof Ernst Bohlmeijer Marije W. Valenkamp |
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Affiliation: | 1. University of Nijmegen , Nijmegen, The Netherlands;2. Trimbos-institute , Utrecht, The Netherlands |
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Abstract: | A pilot evaluation is reported of a reminiscence program aimed at increasing personal meaning. Fifty-seven older persons completed both a sentence completion questionnaire measuring personal meaning and a depression scale administered before and after the program. In comparison to a group from a representative survey that was matched on life contexts, the personal meaning profile of the intervention group was more negative and more focused on self. Hence, a group with impoverished meaning was participating in the program. After the intervention, the personal meaning profile was more positive, in particular with regard to self-evaluations and evaluations of social relations. The group that improved most on depression also improved most on personal meaning. Further research on the program is warranted. |
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