Phillip J. Waite, PhD, CHES, Department of Health, Physical Education, and Recreation, Utah State University, 7000 Old Main Hill, Logan, UT 84322, (435) 797-7217, phillip.waite@usu.edu and Thomas Tatchell, PhD, Department of Public Health, University of Toledo, 2801 W. Bancroft, Toledo, OH 43606, (419) 530-4180, ttatchell@utoledo.edu.

The intent of this study was to determine the impact five, one-hour, weekly sessions of one-on-one transmissive reminiscence therapy (TRT), implemented by University of Toledo service-learner students with non-institutionalized seniors, had on the participating seniors’ perceived health status. A pretest/posttest design using control, visitation, and TRT student-senior pair groups was employed in order to detect differential effects of TRT on eight perceived health variables measured by the SF-36 survey instrument. Five senior participants (5.6%) withdrew from the study due to scheduling conflicts. A total of 89 senior participants completed both the pretest and post-test; 32 from the TRT group, 27 from the visitation group, and 30 from the control group.

Statistical analyses using General Linear Models revealed no interaction between time and group assignment, but step-down paired samples t-tests revealed significant positive change in the TRT group participants on 5 variables and in the visitation group on 2 variables. Control group participants saw no positive changes on any of the measured variables, but did experience significant negative change on 2 variables.

Although the results of this study are promising with regard to the impact of TRT, additional research which involves better trained practitioners, is conducted over a longer period of time, and is carried out with a larger population of senior adults living independently in the community is needed. The intergenerational aspects of the experience should also be explored in future interventions.

Learning Objectives:

• 1. After reading the poster session, the learner will be able to articulate briefly the nature of transmissive reminiscence therapy (TRT).
• 2. After reading the poster session, the learner will be able to list the eight perceived health variables measured by the SF-36 model.
• 3. After reading the poster session, the learner will be able to discuss the apparent perceived health benefits of TRT upon seniors as implemented by university students.

Keywords: Elderly, Therapies

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.