Exploring individual reminiscence as a quality improvement initiative in care homes

This quality improvement project explored the use of individualised reminiscence in care homes to enhance person-centred care within 28 care homes across Northern Ireland.

The initiative focused on one-to-one sessions tailored to each resident’s personal history, memories, and preferences.

Using tools such as the InspireD reminiscence app, staff collaborated with residents and their families to co-create sessions enriched with photographs, music, and sounds.

A Theory of Change model guided the project, highlighting key drivers such as staff training, family involvement, and resident-led content. Observations and early feedback indicated improved communication, emotional connection, and deeper relationships between staff and residents as well as some reductions in use of PRN medications. Some residents shared stories never previously disclosed, reinforcing the emotional and relational value of this approach.