Development of a Culturally Tailored Peer-led Reminiscence Intervention to Decrease Depressive Symptoms in Older Black Adults

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to obtain data that would inform the development of a Reminiscence Resource Guide directed at preparing facilitators in a culturally tailored peer-led reminiscence intervention to decrease depressive symptoms among a sample of older Black adults. Focus group methodology was used to obtain culturally appropriate learning styles among the participants and their acceptance of a peer-led reminiscence intervention. The mean age of the sample was 73.8 (SD=10.0), the majority of participants were female (75%).  Under the supervision of the second author, the focus groups were led by a Black graduate student who had been trained in focus group techniques. Data were collected until saturation was reached. Sessions were taped and transcribed verbatim. Borkan’s immersion/crystallization techniques were used to analyze the data. The following themes related to learning styles and acceptance of the peer reminiscence process emerged; (a) we can learn from one another, (b) preference for experiential learning, (c) create a trusting, social environment and (d) unexpected reminiscences. From these data, the Reminiscence Resource Guide was developed and evaluated by the community members. Future directions include implementing the training program and testing the peer-led intervention in a randomized controlled trial.