Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) Practice Test

What is the purpose of reminiscence therapy for a 74-year-old client?

1. To diagnose mental health issues

2. To promote physical activity

3. To identify past coping strategies

4. To enhance memory function

The correct answer is: To identify past coping strategies

Reminiscence therapy primarily focuses on helping individuals reflect on and share their past experiences, often as a means of connecting with their identity and enhancing their overall well-being. For a 74-year-old client, this therapeutic approach fosters a sense of personal history, allowing them to identify and articulate past coping strategies they have employed in various life situations. By revisiting these memories, individuals can gain insight into their resilience and adapt using these strategies in the present context, thereby promoting emotional health and a sense of continuity in their life narrative. Engaging in reminiscence can also facilitate meaningful conversations that strengthen social connections, which are vital for mental wellness in older adults. The memories shared can reinforce identity and create a sense of purpose. Thus, the identification of past coping strategies through reminiscence therapy is key to empowering clients, enhancing their emotional well-being, and fostering a sense of agency in their current life circumstances.