ABSTRACT

The current paper examined the effect of groupreminiscence for the community-dwelling elderly persons usingcross-generational approach. The study was framed by ReminiscencePartnership Program that encompassed the intervention ofreminiscence group, the training of the university students and theprofessionals of health and social division, and the evaluation.Sixteen elderly persons participated in the reminiscence group. Theywere divided into two groups of 8. They attended an hour-longgroup session once every two weeks over three months. Thethemes of the group were chronological and non-chronological, withthe use of props of the local community. Evaluation of the programincluded pre- and post-test of MMSE, the Activity Scale of TMIG and Baum Test as well as focus group interview. The results ofthe focus group conducted to both the elderly and the studentsbrought to light the socio- cultural and interactional aspect ofgroup. It was suggested that the group reminiscence was effectivefor the elderly participants to bring out a sense of confidencetowards the continuity of self. On the part of the students, it wasfound that it enhanced the students' learning in the possibilities inaging and their reflection on themselves as future career. Aconceptual model is proposed in understanding the multi-dimensionaleffects of reminiscence intervention. The differences in the groupdevelopment and dynamics between the two groups are alsodescribed. Themes of reminiscence and some ethical considerationsin conducing reminiscence group are discussed. Evaluative researchon the intervention of reminiscence group with both qualitative andquantitative account is highly invited.