From burnout to balance : caregivers perspectives on the effects of reminiscence therapy education on quality of life, 2025

Item — Call Number: MU Thesis Bla

Identifier: b7932444

Scope and Contents

From the Collection:

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The collection consists of dissertations written by students enrolled in the Monmouth University graduate Occupational Therapy program. The holdings are primarily bound print documents that were submitted in partial fulfillment of requirements for the Doctor of Occupational Therapy degree.

During the fall 2022 semester (in instances where the requisite waivers were received from consenting student authors), the Monmouth University Library, together with the University's Graduate School and School of Education, began providing open access to select full-text digital versions of current theses and dissertations through links to the ProQuest Dissertations & Theses Global website in the Library's Online Public Access Catalog. Links to these open access digital publications can also be found in the "External Documents" section under any conforming titles that are listed among the holdings itemized in the collection inventory for this finding aid.

Dates

Creation: 2025

Creator

Blake, Paige (1999- ) (Author, Person)
Crowley, Denise (1971- ) (Thesis advisor, Person)
Garcia, Andrea (Thesis advisor, Person)
Patro, John (1985- ) (Thesis advisor, Person)

Conditions Governing Access

The collection is open for research use. Access is by appointment only.

Research appointments are scheduled by the Monmouth University Library Archives Collections Manager (732-923-4526). A minimum of three days advance notice is required to arrange a research appointment for access to the collection.

Access to the collection is confined to the Monmouth University Library and is subject to patron policies approved by the Monmouth University Library.

Patrons must sign a completed Researcher Registration Form and provide appropriate identification to obtain access to the collection. Copies of these documents will be kept on file at the Monmouth University Library.

Full Extent

1 Items (print book) : 43 pages ; 8.5 x 11.0 inches (28 cm).

Language of Materials

English

Additional Description

Abstract

Background: Caregiver burnout is a growing public health concern, particularly for those caring for individuals with Dementia. The physical, emotional, and mental demands of caregiving can lead to significant stress and decreased quality of life. While reminiscence therapy has demonstrated cognitive and emotional benefits for individuals with Dementia, its potential impact on caregivers has limited research. This study examines how reminiscence therapy education influences caregiver engagement, confidence, and well-being in their caregiving role.

Objective: This study explores how participation in a reminiscence therapy education program impacts caregivers' motivation, engagement, confidence, and overall quality of life while reducing stress and burnout.

Methods: A case study design was used to analyze pre- and post-interview responses from a primary caregiver of an individual with Dementia. Qualitative data analysis was completed to assess the impact of education and training. Pre- and post- semi-structured interviews were compared to assess changes in caregiving strategies, understanding of reminiscence therapy and dementia, and quality of life in implementing reminiscence therapy techniques.

Results: The findings indicate that reminiscence therapy training positively influenced the caregiver’s motivation and engagement, leading to a more structured approach to incorporating reminiscence therapy into daily routines. The participant demonstrated increased confidence in caregiving for their loved one with Dementia by recognizing the long-term benefits of reminiscence therapy and its role in enhancing their loved one’s well-being. Additionally, the participant reported early indicators of reduced stress and an improved household atmosphere, contributing to a more positive caregiving experience.

Conclusion: This study highlights the potential of reminiscence therapy training to support caregivers by increasing their confidence, improving engagement strategies, and enhancing overall quality of life. As dementia prevalence continues to rise, further research is needed to explore the long-term impact of reminiscence therapy on caregivers and develop accessible education programs. Integrating reminiscence therapy into caregiving routines may serve as an effective intervention for reducing caregiver burnout and fostering resilience in dementia care.