The Effect of Reminiscence on Depression in Elderly People with Suicidal Ideation: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Considering the problems, multiple diseases, disabilities, and the increased likelihood of suicidal ideation aroused by mental disorders among the elderly, the present study aimed to study the effects of reminiscence on depression in elderly people with suicidal ideation living in a nursing home.

This is a clinical trial study. Considering the inclusion criteria, 30 elderly persons were selected regarding the inclusion criteria and then assigned to two intervention (n = 15) and control (n = 15) groups using the simple random method. An educational program on reminiscence protocol was held in eight sessions. The participants were asked to complete the suicidal ideation, depression, and mental status questionnaires before, immediately after, and one month after the intervention. chi-squared, Mann-Whitney, and Friedman tests were used to analyze the data with SPSS software version 25.

The experimental and control groups were homogenous in terms of marital status, age, gender, psychological status, suicidal ideation, and level of education (P > 0.05). Comparison of the mean scores of depression showed a significant difference between the experimental and control groups immediately after (P = 0.037) and one month after the intervention (P = 0.030). However, before the intervention, no significant difference was observed between the two groups (P = 0.899)

According to the findings of this study, reminiscence as a nursing intervention can improve depression in the elderly with suicidal ideation. Accordingly, holding group reminiscing sessions in places such as nursing homes can be effective in reducing depression symptoms and preventing suicidal ideation in the elderly.