A Systematic Review of the Reminiscence Functions Scale and Implications for Use with Older Adults.

OBJECTIVES: The Reminiscence Functions Scale (RFS) is a widely used robust instrument. While reminiscence-based intervention is one of the most effective nonpharmacological interventions for older adults. This systematic review provides a comprehensive synthesis of the literature that used RFS with older adults, summarizes the main outcomes, and highlights implications for practice. METHODS: This systematic review followed Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Studies were eligible if they used RFS and included older adults. Studies were searched from 1993, the year RFS was first published. Electronic databases were searched (Scopus, PsycNET, and Web of Science), from which 44 eligible studies were identified. RESULTS: Four themes were identified: i) predictive value of reminiscence functions regarding well-being, ii) increased frequency of teach/inform and death preparation functions in older adults, iii) key roles of reminiscence functions in coping with critical life events, iv) reminiscence-based interventions should promote positive memories. CONCLUSIONS: The RFS outcomes may improve reminiscence-based interventions, since the functions of reminiscence are key players in older adults daily life. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: Reminiscence-based interventions should promote positive memories, which are associated with improved well-being. Particularly, it seems a good practice when supporting older adults regarding critical and traumatic events.

Gerontological social workers' perspectives about the future at the start of a COVID-19 vaccination program: A photovoice study.

Summary: The COVID-19 pandemic is a continuing public health crisis, although it has lessened in its intensity since the start of worldwide vaccination programs. In aged care facilities, gerontological social workers have become frontline professionals facing multiple challenges and demands. One year after the first COVID-19 case in Portugal, during the second major lockdown in the country, and with vaccination starting in these facilities, a photovoice program to identify the experiences of these professionals was developed. This study aimed to understand how gerontological social workers foresee the future of practice and intervention with older adults. A thematic analysis was conducted based on the photographs and associated narratives from 10 participants, all female, aged between 22 and 35 years, who attended a program's session. Findings: Three themes were identified with the thematic analysis: (1) personal and professional growth (with renewed life perspectives and increased resilience), (2) reinvention of intervention (with improved management of emotions, teamwork, and alternative ways of intervening), and (3) hope to use the lessons learned (hope that vaccination will bring conditions to recover the older adults' well-being and opportunities to use the good lessons learned). Applications: These findings are relevant to inform policymakers and governments about practices in aged care facilities and to improve the training of gerontological social workers in acute action management and intervention. We stress alternative ways of intervening that came up in the response to the pandemic such as emotional management, digital technology, communication strategies, self-care, or the families' involvement.