Evaluation of the effect of a life review group program on self-esteem and life satisfaction in the elderly.
OBJECTIVE
This study was aimed at evaluating whether a Life Review Group Program (LRGP) improved the self-esteem and life satisfaction in the elderly.


METHODS
This randomized, controlled trial consisted of 75 elderly males from a Veterans' Home in Northern Taiwan, 36 of whom were in the experimental group and 39 of whom were in the control group. The subjects in the experimental group participated in an 8-week LRGP. Data were collected before and after the LRGP and again 1 month after the end of the program.


RESULTS
The study subjects had a mean age of 78.13 years. The generalized estimating equation was used to compare alterations in the self-esteem and life satisfaction of the elderly before and after the intervention. The alterations in self-esteem and life satisfaction in the experimental group after the LRGP were significantly improved compared to the control group. One month after the LRGP was completed, the self-esteem and life satisfaction of the experimental group continued to improve when compared with pre-intervention levels.


CONCLUSIONS
Based on these results, the LRGP can potentially improve the self-affirmation, confidence, and self-esteem of the elderly and promote short-term life satisfaction. The results of this study provide a model for clinical evidence-based therapy, serving as a reference for related studies and evaluation of health-promoting programs, as well as improving the health and quality of care of the elderly.
Chiang
Kai-Jo
KJ
Department of Nursing, Tri-Service General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan, R.O.C.
Lu
Ru-Band
RB
Chu
Hsin
H
Chang
Yue-Cune
YC
Chou
Kuei-Ru
KR
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000375:Aging / Q000523:psychology*; D004522:Educational Status; D015577:Geriatric Assessment; D006293:Health Promotion / Q000379:methods*; D006707:Homes for the Aged; D006801:Humans; D007326:Institutionalization; D008297:Male; D017533:Marital Status; D010549:Personal Satisfaction; D015397:Program Evaluation; D011594:Psychometrics; D011788:Quality of Life; D012649:Self Concept; D013624:Taiwan