Life-story work in long-term care facilities for older people: An integrative review

Aim: To systematically review the literature regarding the experience of older people, families and staff using life-story work in residential care facilities for older people. Background: Life-story work has been promoted as an approach to enhance care provided and involves collecting memories and moments that are important to the person assisting them to regain their sense of self. Design: An integrative review utilising the PRISMA reporting guidelines where seven databases, Scopus, EMBASE, CINAHL, MEDLINE, PsychInfo, PsychARTICLES, and Cochrane, were searched within the timeframe; 1 January 2006 to 14 March 2016. Data were reviewed using Whittemore and Knalf's (Journal of Advanced Nursing, 2005, 52:546) methodological approach for integrative reviews. Analysis was conducted utilising Braun and Clarke's (Qualitative Research in Psychology, 2006, 3:77) six phases to identify, analyse and record themes within the data. Results: Thirteen articles were reviewed, and the review found that life-story work has been introduced using a range of different approaches, with no common approach. Thematic analysis identified two: maintaining identity and building and maintaining relationships. Conclusion: The review extends the current evidence on the experience of using life-story work in long-term aged care facilities for older people. Life-story work has the potential to enhance person-centred care in long-term care. However, improving the process of implementation of life-story work will require education, time and resources and a commitment from service providers and managers. Relevance to clinical practice: Staff who undertake life-story work with residents need to be equipped with the skills to recognise and manage the challenges and issues that may potentially arise. Further research into the successful implementation of life-story work and how it can be resourced is required.